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DUBAI: Pakistan Women’s cricket team defeated Hong Kong by 72 runs to secure a place in the semi-finals of the Asia Cup. Chasing a target of 144 runs in Dubai, Hong Kong were bowled out for just 71 runs in 19 overs. Kerry top-scored for Hong Kong with 30 runs, but her effort could not prevent the team from suffering a heavy defeat. Captain Natasha was dismissed for one run, while Yasmin contributed 13 runs. Pakistan’s Nashra Sandhu delivered a sensational bowling performance, claiming a career-best six wickets. Captain Fatima Sana and Sadia Yousuf took one wicket each. Earlier, Pakistan posted 143 for eight in their allotted 20 overs to set Hong Kong a target of 144 runs. Opener Shawaal Zulfiqar was Pakistan’s top scorer with 47 runs, while Ayesha Zafar made 26 and captain Fatima Sana contributed 24 runs. For Hong Kong, Joey Lin took four wickets, while Iqra Sahar and Kerry claimed two wickets each. Pakistan had earlier defeated Thailand in their opening match of the tournament but suffered a seven-wicket defeat against India.