Women’s T20I Series: Nepal wins Japan by 67 runs

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s formidable bowling display clinched victory in the four-nation women’s T20I series in Hong Kong on Saturday.

In a decisive clash during the group stage finale, Nepal emerged victorious against Japan, triumphing by a commanding 67-run margin.

Japan, tasked with chasing Nepal’s target of 114 runs, found themselves bowled out for a mere 46 runs within the stipulated 20 overs.

Meg Ogawa contributed 17 runs for Japan, while Seika Sumi added 13, with no other batter reaching double-digit scores.

Asmina Karmacharya played a pivotal role, claiming four wickets while conceding only 10 runs in a lethal bowling spell.

Sangita Rai also showcased her bowling prowess, securing three wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 5 runs in 3 overs.

Puja Mahato chipped in with 2 wickets, conceding only 2 runs in 3 overs, including one maiden.

Opting to field after winning the toss in Wang Nai, Japan, Nepal set a target of 113 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in the allotted 20 overs.

Rubina Chhetri top-scored for Nepal with 38 runs before being bowled out by Belwase.

Puja Mahato contributed 13 runs but was caught LBW, while Sita Rana Magar and skipper Indu Burma scored 9 and 27 runs, respectively.

Kajal Shrestha remained unbeaten at 15, hitting 3 fours in 7 balls, while Asmina Karmacharya scored 1 run.

Fast bowler Soni Pakhrin made an impactful debut in the match against Japan, showcasing her skills after participating in a domestic tournament in the Lumbini region.

With this win, Nepal has secured the third position with 2 points, while Japan, having lost all three matches, remains without points.

The two teams are set to face off again on Sunday in the battle for the third-place position.