A stunning spell of left-arm spin from Nashra Sandhu rewrote Pakistan women’s bowling records on September 7, 2026, as she returned figures of 6 for 7 in 4 overs against Hong Kong, China at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The performance made her the first Pakistan bowler to claim six wickets in a Women’s T20I and powered her side to a 72-run victory that confirmed their place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026.
Chasing 144, Hong Kong, China were bowled out for 71 in 19 overs, their batting lineup unable to cope with Sandhu’s accuracy and turn. Kary Chan offered the most resistance with 30 off 47 balls, but no other batter could build a meaningful partnership as wickets fell steadily throughout the innings.
Sandhu’s haul also surpassed the previous best bowling figures by a Pakistan women’s bowler in T20Is. Omaima Sohail had held that record with 5 for 13 against Sri Lanka in 2022, a mark that stood for four years before Sandhu swept it aside in emphatic fashion on Monday.
How did Pakistan post 143 for 8?
Pakistan’s innings was anchored by Shawaal Zulfiqar, who struck 47 off 35 balls to give the total substance and momentum. Her knock proved crucial in lifting Pakistan to 143 for 8, a score that ultimately proved well beyond Hong Kong, China’s reach.
Joyleen Kaur was the standout performer with the ball for Hong Kong, China, taking 4 for 19 to restrict Pakistan’s lower order and prevent a larger total. Despite Kaur’s efforts, the target of 144 was always going to be a stiff ask for a side that had struggled against quality spin throughout the tournament.
What does Pakistan’s semi-final against Sri Lanka mean?
Pakistan finished second in Group A behind India, accumulating 4 points across their group-stage fixtures. That standing sets up a semi-final meeting with Sri Lanka on September 11 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, a step up in opposition that will test the full depth of the Pakistan squad.
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Sandhu’s form heading into that fixture gives Pakistan genuine cause for confidence. Her 6 for 7 is not merely a national record but a statement of intent from a bowler operating at the peak of her powers. Sri Lanka will need to devise a clear plan against her if they are to reach the final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026.
