KATHMANDU: Nepal’s Women’s U-19 cricket team began their ICC Women’s U-19 World Cup Asian Qualifiers campaign with an impressive 67-run victory over Thailand at The Seven Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Nepal, setting a target of 103 runs, bowled out Thailand for a mere 35 runs in just 11.4 overs. Thailand struggled to find their footing against Nepal’s bowling attack, with Aphisara Suwanchonrathi being the only player to reach double digits, scoring 13 runs.
Rachna Kumari Chaudhary led Nepal’s bowling effort, taking four wickets. Captain Pooja Mahato and Riha Sharma supported effectively, securing two wickets each, while Karishma Gurung and Manisha Kumari Upadhyay claimed one wicket each to dismantle the Thai batting lineup.
Earlier, Nepal was asked to bat first after losing the toss and posted a total of 102 runs for six wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Pooja Mahato top-scored with 35 runs off 40 balls, including three fours and a six. Seemana KC and Soni Pakhrin added valuable support, scoring 19 runs each. For Thailand, Charukan Saima took two wickets, and Sunisa Bongkodphongampai took one.
The tournament features four teams—Nepal, Kuwait, Thailand, and the host UAE—competing for a single spot in the ICC Women’s U-19 World Cup, scheduled to be held in Malaysia next year. Nepal will face Kuwait in their second match of the qualifiers tomorrow.
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