Karachi, May 8, 2025: An all-round performance by Rameen Shamim guided the Challengers to a thrilling four-wicket win over the Stars in the fourth fixture of the National Women’s T20 Tournament 2024–25, played at the Oval Cricket Ground on Thursday.
After opting to bat first, Stars captain Sidra Amin’s decision did not pay off as her side was restricted to 116 all out in the allotted 20 overs. Sidra Nawaz top-scored with a 26-ball 27, including just one boundary, while Sidra Amin (23), Tuba Hassan (22), and Samiya Afsar (21) were the only other batters to reach double digits.
The rest of the Stars’ lineup faltered against a disciplined bowling display from the Challengers. Rameen Shamim and Zeb-un-Nisa led the charge with two wickets each, while Tasmiya and Muneeba Riyaz chipped in with one apiece.
In reply, the Challengers chased down the modest target with four balls to spare, reaching 117/6 in 19.2 overs. Opener Sadaf Shams anchored the top order with a steady 32 before falling to Neelam Mushtaq in the 13th over. At 88/5 in the 17th over, the chase hung in the balance.
Enter Rameen Shamim — the left-arm spinner turned match-winner — who smashed an unbeaten 21 off just 12 deliveries to seal the victory. Her clutch innings, featuring aggressive strokeplay under pressure, saw the Challengers home with two deliveries to spare.
Natalia Parvaiz (18) and Aliya Riaz (17) also made handy contributions in the middle.
Tuba Hassan was the pick of the bowlers for the Stars, finishing with figures of 3/26, while Neelam Mushtaq and Waheeda Akhtar claimed one wicket each.
With this win, the Challengers gained momentum ahead of their next clash against the Invincibles, scheduled for Saturday at the same venue.
