Pakistan Women’s Under-19 completed a memorable series comeback by defeating Bangladesh Women’s Under-19 by six wickets in the fifth and final T20 match at the Cox’s Bazar Academy Ground on Friday, sealing the five-match series 3-2.
Chasing a modest target of 85, Pakistan reached 85 for 4 in 17 overs, registering back-to-back six-wicket victories after trailing 2-1 in the series following the first three matches. The result underlined Pakistan’s growing depth and resilience at the junior level.
Pakistan’s chase got off to a cautious start as captain Eman Naseer and Raahima Syed were dismissed early, leaving the visitors 16 for 2. Raahima scored 10 off eight balls with two boundaries, while Eman, who finished as the series’ leading run-scorer with 97 runs, departed soon after.
The innings was stabilised by a composed 37-run partnership for the third wicket between Komal Khan and Aqsa Habib. Aqsa struck two fours in her 23-ball 21 before falling in the 13th over, while Komal anchored the innings with a patient 25 off 46 balls, hitting three boundaries.
With Pakistan at 53 for 3, Fizza Fiaz ensured there were no late hiccups. She played with authority, smashing a six and a four on her way to an unbeaten 18 off 14 deliveries. Areesha Ansari provided calm support, remaining not out on seven as Pakistan crossed the target with three overs to spare.
Earlier, Pakistan produced a disciplined bowling performance after opting to field first, reducing Bangladesh to 31 for 5 inside the first 8.1 overs. Barirah Saif, who was later named Player of the Match, delivered a decisive spell, picking up three wickets for just 16 runs in her four overs, including two crucial strikes in a single over.
Bangladesh struggled to recover from the early collapse, with Sadia Akter providing lone resistance. Batting at number six, she top-scored with 27 off 28 balls, hitting three boundaries to push the hosts to a total of 84 before they were bowled out in 19.1 overs. No other Bangladesh batter managed to reach double figures.
In support, Rozina Akram claimed two wickets for 16 runs, finishing the series with eight wickets — the joint third-highest tally alongside off-spinner Memoona Khalid. Aqsa Habib, Memoona Khalid, and Shehr Bano chipped in with one wicket each.
Pakistan’s victory capped a strong series turnaround and highlighted the team’s balance across departments. Captain Eman Naseer was named Player of the Series for her consistent batting performances, while Barirah Saif’s match-winning spell proved decisive in the series finale.
With this series win, Pakistan Women’s U19 continue to build momentum and confidence as they progress in their international development pathway.
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