Nepal suffer second defeat in a row

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb 2: Host Nepal suffered back-to-back defeats in the Women’s T20I Triangular Series, following a four-wicket loss to Thailand at TU Cricket Ground on Saturday. This victory has propelled Thailand to the top of the table with two consecutive wins. The Netherlands sits in second place with one win and one loss, while Nepal remains winless after two matches, having lost their first match against the Netherlands by 20 runs.

In this series, the three teams will each play three matches against one another, with the team at the top of the table claiming the title.

Electing to bat first, Nepal posted a modest total of 101 runs, losing nine wickets in 20 overs. Thailand comfortably chased down the target, scoring 102 runs for the loss of six wickets in just 19 overs. 

The Thai team initially faced some setbacks, losing two wickets early, but Nannapat Koncharoenkai steadied the innings with an unbeaten half-century, making 60 runs off 58 deliveries, which included six boundaries. Captain Naruemol Chaiwai contributed 13 runs off 21 balls, while Suwanan Khiaoto added 14 runs from just 10 balls.

For Nepal, Manisha Upadhayay took two wickets in her debut match, while Kabita Kunwar, Rubina Chhetry, and Kabita Joshi each claimed one wicket.

Nepal struggled against Thailand's bowling attack, slipping to 40/5 in 8.6 overs after quick dismissals of Samjhana Khadka (0), Mamta Chaudhary (2), Rubina Chhetry (4), and Puja Mahato (6). Captain Indu Barma managed to score 15 runs off 17 balls, including two boundaries.

However, a sixth-wicket partnership of 44 runs between Kabita Kunwar and Bindu Rawal provided some momentum, with each contributing 25 runs. Yet, this was not enough to set a challenging target for Thailand.

Thipatcha Putthawong was the standout bowler for Thailand, taking three wickets. Nattaya Boochatham and Phannita Maya also each claimed two wickets.

Nepal will be aiming to avoid a third consecutive loss as they face the Netherlands on Sunday.