Pakistan A Women made a strong opening statement at the ACC Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026, registering a 30-run victory over Nepal at the Terdthai Cricket Ground in Bangkok on Friday. The comprehensive performance not only gave Pakistan A a winning start but also underlined the growing depth and maturity of their emerging talent pool.
Batting first, Pakistan A posted a competitive 137/6 in 20 overs despite losing early wickets. Openers Yusra Amir (4) and Shawaal Zulfiqar (10) departed cheaply, placing pressure on the middle order. Captain Hafsa Khalid rose to the occasion with a composed and responsible knock, remaining unbeaten on 40 off 39 deliveries to anchor the innings.
Hafsa found valuable support in Waheeda Akhtar, who contributed 23 runs, while crucial partnerships shaped Pakistan A’s recovery. Hafsa and Huraina Sajjad stitched together a 37-run stand, followed by a match-defining 43-run partnership between Hafsa and Waheeda, which steadied the innings and pushed the total into a defendable range. For Nepal, Kabita Kunwar was the standout bowler, claiming two wickets, while the remaining bowlers shared the rest.
Nepal’s chase began on a positive note, with Bindu Rawal leading from the front. Her well-constructed 39 off 45 balls helped Nepal reach 62/1 after 10 overs, putting them firmly in the contest. However, once Rawal was dismissed, the momentum shifted decisively in Pakistan A’s favour.
Regular wickets and disciplined bowling choked Nepal’s scoring options, triggering a middle-order collapse. Captain Puja Mahato managed 11 runs, while Kabita Kunwar added 18 and Sita Rana Magar remained unbeaten on 19, but the resistance came too late. Nepal eventually finished on 107/6 in their 20 overs, falling short of the target.
Pakistan A’s bowlers delivered a controlled and tactically sound effort to defend the total. Anosha Nasir starred with three wickets, while Momina Riasat picked up two, ensuring Nepal were never able to regain control after their strong start. The consistent pressure applied through the middle overs proved decisive in sealing the victory.
Captain Hafsa Khalid was rightly named Player of the Match for her all-round leadership and crucial unbeaten knock.
With this win, Pakistan A Women take early momentum into the tournament and will next face India A on February 15, while Nepal will aim to bounce back when they take on UAE earlier the same day.
