Asian Games 2026: Who could Pakistan face in women’s cricket semifinal?

Pakistan advanced to the semifinals of the women’s cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games by defeating Thailand in a rain-interrupted quarter-final. The match, held at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, was reduced to 11 overs per side due to wet conditions.

After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana chose to field first. Thailand was restricted to 91 for four in their 11 overs. Natthakan Chantham was dismissed early by Fatima Sana, but Nannapat Koncharoenkai and Phannita Maya rebuilt the innings with a strong partnership. Koncharoenkai scored 49 runs, while Maya contributed 15 before being retired out. Thailand’s captain, Naruemol Chaiwai, hit 10 runs in her brief innings.

In Pakistan’s chase, Shawaal Zulfiqar and Gull Feroza provided a solid start with 36 runs for the first wicket. Zulfiqar scored 25 runs quickly, including three fours and a six. However, Thailand’s Onnicha Kamchomphu took three wickets, putting Pakistan under pressure. Fatima Sana then hit 21 runs in her innings, helping Pakistan stay in the game.

With crucial contributions from Eyman Fatima and Tuba Hassan, Pakistan reached their target of 92 for seven wickets in 10.4 overs, securing a three-wicket victory.

In the semifinals on September 20, Pakistan will face either Sri Lanka or Malaysia. Sri Lanka and Malaysia will compete in an earlier quarter-final, while India plays Japan later in the day.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh advanced to the other semifinal bracket after their match against China was abandoned due to wet conditions. They will face either India or Japan.

The tournament is structured so that Pakistan and India won’t meet until the medal matches. If both teams win their semifinals, they will play each other for gold on September 22. If they lose, they’ll meet in the bronze medal match the same day.