Nepal missed a great opportunity to defeat Thailand, as they were narrowly defeated by 5 runs in the ongoing Triangular Women’s T20 Series at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Tuesday.

Thailand batted first after winning the toss, setting a target of 106 runs with 6 wickets down in their allotted 20 overs. Nepal, in response, could only muster 101 runs, losing 8 wickets in the process.

Despite a stellar bowling performance by Nepal, who reduced Thailand to 56 at the loss of 6 wickets in the 13th over, the chase proved to be too tough. Manisha Upadhyay was the standout bowler for Nepal, taking 3 wickets for just 13 runs, including a stunning spell in which she dismissed Thailand's openers and captain in quick succession. However, the resistance from Thipatcha Putthawong (25) and Chanida Sutthirueng (27) in a partnership of 50 runs for the seventh wicket helped Thailand recover and secure the win with six balls to spare.

Nepal’s batting lineup, however, faltered under pressure. Their top order collapsed early, with Mamata Chaudhary (0), Captain Indu Barma (3), Bindu Rawal (0), and Samjhana Khadka (5) all dismissed cheaply in the powerplay. The middle-order partnership between Rubina Chhetri and Puja Mahato briefly revived hopes with a 44-run stand, but both were dismissed before they could build a substantial partnership.

Kabita Kunwar and Bindu Rawal were the top scorers for Nepal, with 25 runs each. Kunwar faced 32 balls, striking 2 fours, while Rawal made 25 off 28 balls with 3 fours.

The loss marked Nepal’s fourth consecutive defeat in the series, having lost to both Thailand and the Netherlands. Thailand remains undefeated, having won all four of their matches so far and is now almost certain to clinch the title.