KATHMNDU, Feb 6: The Netherlands secured a nail-biting one-wicket victory over Thailand in the Tri-Nation Women's T20 International Series on Thursday. Despite the loss, Thailand remains at the top of the points table with eight points, securing the series title. The Netherlands, having played their final match, also finished with eight points but fell short on net run rate. Meanwhile, hosts Nepal have struggled throughout the tournament, failing to register a single win in five matches.
The final game of the series, scheduled for Friday, will see Nepal take on Thailand in a match of academic interest, as Thailand has already clinched the championship.
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Thailand posted a competitive total of 109/5 in their allotted 20 overs. In response, the Netherlands appeared to be cruising towards victory at 76/3. However, a sudden batting collapse saw them lose four wickets for just nine runs, putting the match on a knife’s edge.
At 94/8, the Netherlands seemed destined for defeat, but the lower-order batters held their nerve. Silver Siegers (7*) and Isabel van der Woning (5*) guided the team to victory in the final overs, sealing a dramatic triumph.
Opener Babette de Leede led the charge with a composed 32 off 42 balls, striking two boundaries. Her opening partner, Sterre Kalis, contributed a quickfire 14 off 12 balls, including three fours. Robin Rijke, batting at number four, added a valuable 20 runs off 21 balls, while Heather Siegers (5) and Caroline de Lange (6) chipped in lower down the order.
Thailand’s bowlers put up a spirited fight, with Thipatcha Putthawong leading the attack, claiming four wickets. Onnicha Kamchomphu took three crucial wickets, while Chanida Sutthiruang added two scalps to her tally. The Netherlands also benefited from eight extras in their total.
Thailand's innings got off to a poor start, as their top three batters failed to reach double digits. However, Nathakan Chantham anchored the innings with an unbeaten 36 off 46 balls, hitting four boundaries and a six. Number six batter Chanida Sutthiruang played a crucial knock of 32 off 28 balls, also striking four fours. Captain Naruemol Chaiwai contributed 15 off 26 balls, while Suwanan Khiaoto remained not out on 10.
For the Netherlands, Iris Zwilling starred with the ball, taking three wickets, while Heather Siegers claimed two scalps to restrict Thailand to a modest total.
While Thailand has already secured the series title, Nepal will have one final opportunity to salvage some pride in their last game against the champions on Friday. The Netherlands, despite their spirited performance, will reflect on their campaign as they wrap up their participation in the tournament.