Fatima Sana’s heroics go in vain as South Africa edge Pakistan

BIRMINGHAM: Pakistan captain Fatima Sana produced a stunning all-round performance, but her efforts were not enough to prevent South Africa from securing a dramatic two-wicket victory in a gripping Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 encounter at Edgbaston on Wednesday.

In a match filled with momentum swings, South Africa successfully chased down a target of 127, reaching 127-8 in 16.5 overs despite a spirited fightback from Pakistan’s bowlers.

The Proteas appeared to be cruising towards victory when they reached 76-2 at the halfway stage of the chase. However, Pakistan refused to surrender and mounted a remarkable comeback, reducing South Africa to 107-8 and turning what seemed like a straightforward chase into a nail-biting contest.

With the pressure mounting, Nadine de Klerk stepped up for South Africa. The all-rounder played a composed and match-winning innings of 37 not out from just 28 balls, striking six boundaries and guiding her side over the finish line.

Pakistan found a hero in skipper Fatima Sana, who delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament. After rescuing her team with the bat, she returned to claim three crucial wickets, finishing with impressive figures of 3-16.

Earlier, Pakistan’s innings had looked destined for disaster. The Green Shirts slumped to 50-8 after a top-order collapse, leaving them staring at a below-par total.

But Fatima had other plans.

Showing immense determination and leadership, she launched a remarkable counterattack alongside Tuba Hassan. The pair stitched together a record 71-run partnership for the ninth wicket, reviving Pakistan’s innings and frustrating the South African bowlers.

Fatima remained unbeaten on a brilliant 55 off 38 deliveries, smashing six fours and two sixes, while Tuba contributed a valuable 23 from 27 balls. Their partnership lifted Pakistan to a competitive total of 126-9 from 20 overs.

South Africa’s bowling attack was led by experienced all-rounder Marizanne Kapp, who claimed three important wickets to keep Pakistan under pressure.

Elsewhere in the tournament, India continued their dominant start with a crushing 95-run victory over the Netherlands. Smriti Mandhana struck 74 and Shafali Verma added 55 as India posted 209-5 before bowling the Dutch side out comfortably.

Australia also maintained their winning momentum, defeating Bangladesh by nine wickets, with Georgia Voll starring in another commanding performance.

While Pakistan ended on the losing side, Fatima Sana’s inspiring display provided a major positive and underlined her growing status as one of the brightest stars in women’s cricket.