Nepal made history on Monday, May 19, by securing a coveted spot in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifiers for the first time.
Nepal clinched the berth with a commanding five-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Super Three stage of the Asia Region Qualifier being held in Thailand. The win, along with Thailand’s earlier triumph over the UAE on Sunday, ensured Nepal finished among the top two teams in the Super Three Stage, securing progression to the global stage.
A total of 10 teams will compete in the Global Qualifiers, with the top four (two from each group) advancing to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be hosted by England.
In Monday’s match at Terdthai Cricket Ground, Nepal won the toss and opted to field. The UAE posted 114 runs losing 7 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. UAE’s captain Esha Oza led the scoring with 39 runs, while Tirtha Sathish (21) and Heena Hotchandani (20) provided solid support.
Nepal’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Manisha Upadhyaya, who picked up four wickets, while Kavita Kunwar and Rajmati Airi added two and one wicket respectively.
Chasing 115, Nepal reached the target in the final over, finishing at 115 for 5 wickets. Captain Indu Barma anchored the innings with an unbeaten 30, aided by Rubina Chhetri (23), Samjhana Khadka (21), and Puja Mahato (13).
UAE’s bowlers shared wickets evenly, with Michel Botha, Suraksha Kotte, Vaishnavi Mahesh, and Oza each claiming one scalp.
Nepal will face host Thailand in the final match of the Super Three stage on Tuesday.
(With inputs from RSS)
