Pakistan’s Women’s Cricket Team marked a historic triumph, breaking a drought of over five years with a remarkable 10-run victory over New Zealand in the second T20I of their series in Dunedin on Tuesday. The victory not only secured the series for Pakistan but also etched their first-ever T20I series win against the White Ferns and their initial triumph away from home since defeating Bangladesh in October 2018.

The win was well-deserved, as Pakistan showcased a strong batting performance, with contributions from Muneeba Ali (35), Aliya Riaz (32*), and former captain Bismah Maroof (21). The visitors set a competitive total of 137/6 in 20 overs after being sent into bat by the Kiwis. Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal played a crucial role by dismissing Bernadine Bezuidenhout (2) and Amelia Kerr (2), reducing New Zealand to 9/2.

Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Fatima Sana (3/22), maintained control, and the hosts couldn’t mount a comeback. Hannah Rowe’s well-compiled 33 was the top score for New Zealand. The series will conclude with the third and final game in Queenstown on Saturday.

The victory comes at a time of positive developments for women’s cricket in Pakistan, as the Pakistan Cricket Board has awarded 11-month domestic contracts to 74 young women cricketers. Among them, 59 players fall under the emerging and U19 categories, with 14 having already represented Pakistan at the senior level. The move is seen as a significant boost to the confidence of women cricketers, setting the stage for an exciting women’s cricket season resuming on September 1. The contracts recognize outstanding performances across various platforms, including domestic tournaments, emerging tournaments, U19 domestic events, and the ICC U19 Women’s World Cup.