Nashra Sandhu’s 6/26 Powers Pakistan to Victory

lAORE: Pakistan spinner Nashra Sandhu delivered a career-best performance against South Africa in the third women’s ODIH on Monday. She claimed six wickets for just 26 runs at Gaddafi Stadium, helping Pakistan bowl out the visitors for only 115 runs. Her remarkable spell also took her past the 100-wicket mark in women’s ODIs, making her only the third Pakistani woman to achieve the milestone. This match marked her 75th ODI appearance for Pakistan.

Sandhu’s nine-over spell ripped through South Africa’s batting order, dismissing key players including Chloe Tryon and Sune Luus. Her 6/26 now stands as the second-best bowling figures in Pakistan’s women’s ODI history. Only Sajjida Shah’s 7/4 against Japan in 2003 ranks higher. Sandhu surpassed Sana Mir’s previous second-best figures of 5/32. She now joins Pakistan’s elite bowling club alongside Sana Mir and Nida Dar, with 104 wickets to her name.

South Africa struggled throughout their innings and failed to build partnerships. Captain Laura Wolvaardt scored 28, but most batters fell cheaply under pressure. Pakistan’s bowling was disciplined and aggressive, never allowing South Africa to settle. The visitors were bowled out in just 26 overs, setting Pakistan a modest target of 116 runs. The collapse marked South Africa’s weakest batting show of the series.

In response, Pakistan chased the target comfortably, finishing at 116/4 in 31 overs. Sidra Amin remained unbeaten with a steady 50, while Muneeba Ali added 44 runs. The win gave Pakistan a consolation victory, as South Africa had already sealed the series 2-1. However, the performance lifted team morale and capped the series on a high note. Sandhu’s spell was the standout highlight of the match.

Nashra Sandhu’s figures are now among the best by any Asian left-arm spinner in women’s ODIs. She outshines Indian bowlers like Ekta Bisht and Rajeshwari Gayakwad. Born in Lahore in 1997, Sandhu debuted in 2017 and has since become a key figure in Pakistan’s bowling lineup. Her record-breaking performance in Lahore confirms her place among the top spinners in Asian women’s cricket.