Nepal secured a spot in the semifinals of the Women’s U-19 Asia Cup defeating Pakistan by six wickets in a thrilling encounter at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Monday.

Pakistan, who won the toss and chose to bat first, posted a modest total of 104/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Pakistan’s top scorer was Komal Khan, who made 38 runs off 44 balls, hitting two boundaries. Maham Anis remained unbeaten on 29, while Ravail Farhan contributed 13 runs.

In reply, Nepal reached the target, finishing at 105/4 in 19 overs. Captain Puja Mahato led the chase with an impressive 47 not out off 47 balls, including three fours. She was well supported by Sana Parveen (10), Sony Pakhrin (13), and Simana KC, who remained unbeaten on 12.

Pakistan's bowlers, Fatima Khan and Quratulain Ahsen, claimed one wicket each, but they couldn't stop Nepal’s steady chase.

Earlier, in their batting innings, Pakistan struggled to accelerate after an early collapse, and Nepal's bowlers, led by captain Puja Mahato, kept the pressure on. Puja was the standout performer with the ball, claiming two wickets, while Rachana Kumari Chaudhary, Riya Sharma, and Simana KC took one wicket each.

With this win, Nepal advanced to the semifinals as the group leaders of Group A, having defeated Pakistan in both their group matches. They will now face India in the semifinal on Tuesday.

In the meantime, Group B teams, including Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Malaysia, continue their battle for semifinal spots.