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.
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