Nisshin: Pakistan's women's cricket team secured their place in the semi-finals of the Asian Games with a narrow three-wicket victory over Thailand in a rain-affected quarter-final match. The tense encounter saw Pakistan chasing a target of 92 runs in 11 overs, ultimately achieving the win with just two balls remaining.

According to International Cricket Council, the match faced a delayed start due to a wet outfield, with Pakistan opting to bowl first. The reduced powerplay was limited to 3.2 overs, during which Pakistan's captain, Fatima Sana, struck early to dismiss Thailand's opener, Natthakan Chantham. Thailand's Nannapat Koncharoenkai then took the lead, forming a significant partnership with captain Naruemol Chaiwai. Koncharoenkai fell just one run short of a half-century, contributing heavily to Thailand's competitive total of 91 for 4.

Pakistan's run chase began aggressively with Shawaal Zulfiqar scoring quickly, but Thailand responded by taking four wickets for just 11 runs in a span of 14 balls. With the chase faltering at 47 for 4, Fatima Sana orchestrated a recovery, aided by a pivotal 25-run over that shifted the momentum. Despite further setbacks, including Sana's dismissal for 21 runs, Pakistan's lower order held firm. Tuba Hassan's crucial late hitting, followed by steady contributions from Eman Naseer and Umm-e-Hani, ensured Pakistan's passage to the next round.

The win reinforced Pakistan's strong historical performance in the Asian Games, where they have previously claimed gold twice. The team will now face the winner of the Malaysia versus Sri Lanka match in the semi-final. Meanwhile, Bangladesh advanced to the semi-finals after their match against China was washed out by rain, setting up a clash with the victor of the India versus Japan fixture.