Alia riaz

Cricket World Cup Qualifier: The final day of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 witnessed high drama and emotional swings, with Pakistan completing a flawless campaign and Bangladesh sneaking into the World Cup after West Indies fell heartbreakingly short in their final game.

Pakistan began the day with a commanding seven-wicket win over Bangladesh, maintaining their unbeaten run. After electing to bat first, Bangladesh struggled against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling. Reduced to 21/3 early on, they found brief stability through Mst Ritu Moni (48) and Fahima Khatun (44 not out), who helped post a fighting 178/9. Sadia Iqbal was the pick of the bowlers with 3-28.

Chasing 179, Pakistan overcame the early loss of Shawaal Zulfiqar thanks to a composed 80-run stand between Muneeba Ali (69) and Sidra Amin (37). Alia Riaz’s unbeaten 52 sealed the win with 23 balls to spare, capping a perfect group-stage run for the hosts.