KATHMANDU: Nepal’s journey in the ACC Women’s Premier Cup has come to an end after a 56-run defeat against Thailand in the quarterfinal on Wednesday morning, ending their qualification hopes for the Asia Cup.
Chasing a target of 131 runs at the Bayuemas Oval, Nepal struggled with the bat and were restricted to 74 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their full 20 overs.
Former captain Rubina Chhetry remained unbeaten with the top score of 20 runs. Sonu Pakharin contributed 15 runs, Sita Rana Magar scored 12, and Samanjhana Khadka added 11. However, none of the other batters were able to reach double figures.
Thailand’s disciplined bowling attack played a key role in restricting Nepal. Thipatcha Putthawong was the most economical bowler, taking 2 wickets while conceding just 7 runs in her four overs. Sunida Chaturongrattana and Suliporn Laomi also picked up two wickets each.
Earlier, Thailand, after winning the toss and electing to bat first, posted a competitive total of 130 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 20 overs.
Opener Nannapat Koncharoenkai anchored the innings with an unbeaten 63 off 51 balls. Fanita Maya scored 26 runs, while Chanida Sutthiruang added 16 runs. For Nepal, Kabita Kunwar, Riya Sharma, and Rubina Chhetry took one wicket each.
The defeat marks another setback for the Nepali women’s cricket team, missing out on a major opportunity once again. Last week, Nepal had also failed to qualify for the Asian Games after losing a crucial qualifying match against China.
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