Pakistan Opts to Bat First in Crucial Women’s World Cup Qualifier Against Thailand Women’s World Cup qualifier
In a pivotal match that could determine qualification for the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first against Thailand in their fourth One-Day International (ODI) of the ongoing qualifiers. The high-stakes fixture is being held under lights at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
The host team is aiming to maintain its flawless form in the competition, having secured a commanding 65-run win against the West Indies in their previous outing. That victory not only boosted Pakistan’s confidence but also propelled them back to the top of the points table in the six-nation tournament.
Sidra Amin’s stellar performance with the bat, which earned her the Player of the Match title against the West Indies, along with disciplined bowling, has played a key role in Pakistan’s dream run so far. With three consecutive wins, Pakistan is considered the clear favorite heading into this game against a lower-ranked Thai side.
Thailand, meanwhile, will be hoping for an upset after a spirited but unsuccessful effort in their last match, where they fell short by 46 runs while chasing a massive 306-run target set by Ireland.
The tournament features a round-robin format and includes six teams — Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand, West Indies, and hosts Pakistan. Matches are being played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and the LCCA Ground.
The qualifiers will determine the two teams who will secure spots in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place later this year in India.
Due to geopolitical tensions following India’s refusal to tour Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy, the Women’s World Cup matches involving India are to be held at neutral venues under a “hybrid” hosting arrangement. However, Pakistan continues to play its games on home soil.
Team Line-ups:
Pakistan XI:
Shawaal Zulfiqar, Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Fatima Sana (c), Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu
Thailand XI:
Nattaya Boochatham, Chanida Sutthiruang, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Natthakan Chantham, Naruemol Chaiwai (c), Phannita Maya, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Thipatcha Putthawong, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Suwanan Khiaoto (wk), Suleeporn Laomi
FAQs
1. Why did Pakistan choose to bat first against Thailand?
Pakistan opted to bat first to set a strong target and make the most of favorable pitch conditions, aiming to maintain their unbeaten record.
2. What is at stake in this Pakistan vs Thailand match?
A win could secure Pakistan’s place in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, making this match crucial for their qualification hopes.
3. How has Pakistan performed so far in the qualifiers?
Pakistan has been dominant, winning all three of their matches, including a notable 65-run victory over the West Indies.
4. What is Thailand’s position in the tournament?
Thailand is still fighting for points, coming off a high-scoring loss to Ireland where they showed strong batting potential despite defeat.
5. Why are some matches in the tournament being played at neutral venues?
Due to India’s refusal to play matches in Pakistan, a hybrid hosting model was introduced, placing India’s fixtures at neutral venues while Pakistan plays at home.
