Nepal's losing run continue

By A Staff Reporter

Kathmandu, Feb. 5: Nepal's losing streak in the Women's T20I Triangular Series continued as the host team suffered their fourth defeat, falling to Thailand by just five runs. 

With this loss, Nepal's hopes of clinching the series title on home soil were dashed. In contrast, Thailand extended their winning run to four matches, enhancing their chances of lifting the title at TU Cricket Ground, where they currently lead the table with eight points.

Nepal still has the opportunity to conclude the tournament on a positive note, as they have two matches remaining. They will face the second-placed Netherlands on Wednesday and then play against the leaders, Thailand, on February 7 (Friday). The Dutch, having already won two matches against Nepal, have accumulated four points to hold onto second place.

Thailand elected to bat first at TU Cricket Ground but struggled to set a challenging target, managing only 106 runs while losing six wickets in their 20 overs. 

During the chase, Nepal suffered a major collapse at the top order, ultimately finishing at 101/8 in 20 overs and missing the chance to secure a win.

Nepal's innings started poorly, reeling at 8/4 within 4.2 overs. However, the fifth-wicket partnership between Puja Mahato and Rubina Chhetry provided some respite with a 44-run stand. Former captain Rubina top-scored with 26 runs, which included one six and three fours off 30 balls. U19 captain Puja contributed 18 runs from 28 deliveries.

Roma Thapa and Kabita Joshi brought Nepal closer to victory with their determined batting. However, after Kabita was caught out, Nepal's hopes of winning the match faded. Kabita made a significant contribution of 24 runs from 20 balls, striking three fours and one six. Thapa remained not out, finishing with a run-a-ball score of 19.

Thipatcha Putthawong was the standout bowler for Thailand, claiming four wickets, while Phannita Maya took two wickets for Nepal.

Earlier in the match, Thipatcha and Chanida Sutthiruang formed an unbeaten 50-run partnership, helping Thailand recover from 56/6 to reach a total of 106. Thipatcha scored 25 runs off 31 balls, while Chanida added 27 runs from 28 balls. Key contributions also came from Nattaya Boochatham (10 runs), Aphisara Suwanchonrathi (17 runs), and Nannapat Koncharoenkai (19 runs). Thailand initially lost four wickets for just four runs but ultimately showed their experience in both batting and bowling.

For Nepal, Manisha Upadhayay was impressive with the ball, taking three wickets, while Puja Mahato and Rachana Chaudhary each took one wicket, with Rachana making her debut in the national colors.