Fatima Sana smashes world record for fastest half-century in women’s T20Is

KARACHI: Pakistan captain Fatima Sana delivered a record-breaking performance on Friday, scoring the fastest half-century in women’s T20 international cricket, reaching the milestone in just 15 balls against Zimbabwe at the National Bank Stadium.

Coming to the crease with Pakistan at 152 for 4, Fatima immediately shifted the momentum of the innings with a powerful and aggressive display of batting. She struck boundaries at will, finishing with 10 fours and two sixes in an unbeaten 62 off just 19 deliveries.

Her innings came at a staggering strike rate of 326 and completely dismantled the Zimbabwean bowling attack.

Pakistan posted a commanding total of 223 for 4, with strong support from Saira Baig, who scored 50, and Ayesha Zafar, who contributed 45 runs.

In response, Zimbabwe were bundled out for 90 in 17.1 overs, handing Pakistan a dominant 133-run victory and a clean 3-0 series sweep.

Fatima Sana’s 15-ball fifty broke the previous world record of 18 balls, which had been jointly held by New Zealand’s Sophie Devine, Australia’s Phoebe Litchfield, and India’s Richa Ghosh.

All three had reached the milestone in separate matches between 2015 and 2024, but Fatima’s explosive innings now stands alone at the top of the record books.

Her performance has been widely hailed as one of the most destructive batting displays in women’s T20 international cricket history, further strengthening her reputation as one of Pakistan’s leading all-round talents.