Pakistan began their Women’s T20 World Cup campaign on a high by defeating 2016 champions West Indies by eight wickets in Canberra.

Under the captaincy of Bismah Maroof, who is leading the side in a world event for the first time, Pakistan are looking to secure a semi-final berth for the first time.

A good bowling display helped Pakistan restrict West Indies to 124/7 in their allotted 20 overs, after the latter won the toss and decided to bat first.

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West Indies skipper Stafanie Taylor and middle-order batsman Shemaine Campbelle were the notable performers, scoring 43 run each.

For Pakistan pacers Diana Baig and Aiman Anwer along with off-spinner Nida Dar claimed two wickets each.

In response, Pakistan openers Javeria Khan and Muneeba Ali provided Pakistan with the perfect platform while chasing the modest target. The duo’s 58-run partnership broke Pakistan's highest opening partnership record in Women's World Cup, surpassing the 57-run stand between Bismah Maroof and Javeria Khan against Australia Women in 2014.

Muneeba and Javeria were eventually dismissed after scoring 25 and 35 runs respectively.

Bismah and Nida remained unbeaten on 38 and 18 runs respectively as Pakistan achieved the target in 18.2 overs.

Pakistan’s upcoming fixtures:

28 February – England v Pakistan, 1pm (PST)

1 March – South Africa v Pakistan, 9am (PST)

3 March – Pakistan v Thailand, 9am (PST)