KATHMANDU, Jan 22:Nepal’s women’s cricket team suffered a narrow two-run defeat against the Netherlands in Group ‘B’ of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Wednesday.
After winning the toss, the Netherlands opted to bat first and posted 140 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, Nepal were restricted to 138 runs for seven wickets, falling just short of the target.
Chasing 141, experienced batters Rubina Chhetri and Sita Rana Magar put up a strong fight, but Nepal could not cross the line. Rubina remained unbeaten on 37, while Sita scored an unbeaten 27. Bindu Rawal contributed 18 runs, Samjhana Khadka added 14, and Kabita Joshi scored 13.
Biratnagar Warriors wins by 7 runs in dramatic super over
For the Netherlands, Isabel van der Woning led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Caroline de Lange, Robin Rika, and Silver Siegers claimed one wicket each.
This marked Nepal’s second consecutive defeat in the tournament, significantly denting their chances of reaching the Super Six. The Netherlands, meanwhile, secured their third straight victory to book a place in the Super Six.
Earlier, Netherlands captain Babette de Leede top-scored with 49 runs off 47 balls, including seven fours, narrowly missing a half-century. Sterre Kalis scored 30, while Robin Rika remained unbeaten on 19.
For Nepal, Rubina Chhetri picked up two wickets, while Suman Bista, Pooja Mahato, and Riya Sharma took one wicket apiece.
Ten teams are competing in the tournament, with the top four earning qualification for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup to be held in England and Wales.
