DERBY - Pakistan Women endured a disappointing build-up to the ICC Women’s World Cup 2026 as Scotland handed them a 41-run defeat via the DLS method in a rain-affected warm-up match at the County Cricket Ground on Tuesday. The defeat marked Pakistan’s second successive loss in the warm-up fixtures after their nine-wicket setback against Sri Lanka earlier in the week. Despite the results, the Green Shirts will look to regroup before opening their World Cup campaign against arch-rivals India on June 14.
Scotland’s Strong Batting Display
Asked to bowl first, Pakistan found themselves under pressure from the outset as Scotland posted a formidable 187-5 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by captain Kathryn Bryce, who produced a stunning unbeaten 94 off just 43 deliveries, smashing 11 fours and three sixes. Scotland raced to 41-1 in the powerplay before Bryce and Darcey Carter combined to maintain the momentum. Carter contributed a valuable 45 off 36 balls as the pair helped Scotland reach 95 at the halfway stage.
Pakistan briefly fought back by claiming quick wickets to reduce Scotland to 111-4 in 14.1 overs, but Bryce’s aggressive strokeplay ensured her side finished strongly. Tasmia Rubab, Sadia Iqbal and Ayesha Zafar claimed one wicket each for Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Chase Interrupted by Rain
Chasing a challenging target, Pakistan struggled to gain momentum and were reeling at 62-5 after nine overs when rain interrupted play. The weather prevented any further action, leaving Scotland winners under the DLS method. Muneeba Ali top-scored for Pakistan with 20 off 22 balls, while Rachel Slater was Scotland’s most successful bowler with two wickets.
Ireland’s Warm-Up Victory
Meanwhile, Ireland concluded their warm-up preparations on a positive note with an 11-run victory over Bangladesh in Loughborough. Batting first, Ireland posted 143-9, thanks to a late cameo from Ava Canning and a 30-run knock from Rebecca Stokell. Bangladesh looked well placed during a 77-run partnership between Juairiya Ferdous and Sharmin Akhter, but Ireland’s bowlers staged a strong comeback. Left-arm spinner Aimee Maguire starred with four wickets, removing key middle-order batters to derail the chase and restrict Bangladesh to 132-6. Ireland will now take confidence from the performance as they prepare to face Scotland in their World Cup opener on June 13.
