KATHMANDU, Feb 4: Nepal's poor form in the ongoing international T20 tri-series continued as they suffered a narrow five-run defeat against a dominant Thailand side at the TU Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, today. With this latest loss, Nepal remains winless in all four matches the team played so far in the tournament.
Chasing a moderate target of 107 runs after Thailand posted 106/6, Nepal’s batting lineup faltered once again. Despite playing the full 20 overs, they could only manage 101/8, struggling against Thailand’s disciplined bowling attack led by Thipatcha Putthawong, who claimed four wickets, and Phannita Maya, who took two.
Meanwhile, Thailand has established itself as a formidable force among ICC Associate member teams, winning all four of their matches in the tri-series—two each against Nepal and the Netherlands. Their consistent performances have secured them eight points, placing them firmly at the top of the table in this first-of-its-kind tri-series in Nepal.
Historically, Nepal has struggled against Thailand in T20 cricket, having lost all five of their encounters in various tournaments. Given their current form, Nepal faces an uphill battle when they meet Thailand again on February 7. Before that, Nepal will take on the Netherlands in their next match tomorrow.
Nepal faces 70-run defeat at the hand of host Thailand
Chasing the victory target for Nepal, Rubina Chhetri top-scored with 26 runs off 30 balls, hitting three fours and a six. Kabita Joshi contributed 24 runs off 20 balls, also striking three fours and a six. Roma Thapa remained unbeaten on 19 runs but could not steer Nepal to victory.
For Thailand, Thipatcha Putthawong was the chief demolisher of Nepal as she led the bowling attack with an impressive four-wicket haul, while Phannita Maya claimed two wickets.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Thailand posted a modest total of 106/6 in their 20 overs. Chanida Sutthiruang top-scored with 27 runs off 28 balls, followed by Nannapat Khoncharoenkai (19 off 23 balls) and Aphisara Suwanchonrathi (17 off 19 balls).
A crucial 50-run partnership for the sixth wicket helped Thailand recover after they had slumped to 56/6. Nattaya Boochatham chipped in with 12 runs off 9 balls, while Thipatcha Putthawong remained unbeaten on 25 runs.
For Nepal, Manisha Upadhyay was the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets. Pooja Mahato and Rachna Chaudhary claimed one wicket each.
Nepal has suffered defeats in all their matches so far, losing twice to both Thailand and the Netherlands. Thailand, on the other hand, has maintained a perfect record, defeating both opponents in their respective encounters. The team with the highest points at the end of the round-robin stage will be crowned champions of the tri-series.
Nepal will look to break their losing streak when they face the Netherlands tomorrow, while Thailand aims to continue their dominance in the series.
