Sports
Nepal lose third consecutive match in Women’s T20I Triangular Series
Nepal fall short in the chase, managing only 125 runs against the Netherlands’ 141.
Post Report
Nepal suffered their third consecutive defeat in the ongoing Women’s T20I Triangular Series being held in TU Cricket Ground Kirtipur, losing to the Netherlands by 15 runs on Sunday. Chasing a target of 141 runs, Nepal could only manage 125 runs, losing 8 wickets in the allotted 20 overs.
This marks Nepal’s third straight loss in the tournament. They were defeated by the Netherlands in their opening match by 20 runs, followed by a 4-wicket loss to Thailand. For the Dutch, this victory was their second win in three matches, following a heavy loss to Thailand in their previous game.
In the latest encounter, the Netherlands, opting to bat first, posted a competitive total of 140-9 in their allotted 20 overs. Nepal’s bowling attack, led by Sita Rana Magar, kept them in check, with Sita taking 5 wickets for just 12 runs in 3 overs. Despite a strong start from the Netherlands, who had scored 85 runs in the first 10 overs, Sita's outstanding bowling performance restricted them to a modest total.
Captain Babette de Leede top-scored for the Netherlands with 41 runs off 38 balls, while Heather Siegers contributed 26 runs off 23 balls. The Dutch innings saw contributions from several players, but Nepal's bowlers, particularly Sita, ensured they did not build any significant partnerships.
In reply, Nepal’s chase faltered from the start. Opener Samjhana Khadka fell early for 23 runs, and captain Indu Barma could only manage 7 runs before being dismissed. Despite a fighting 30 from Barma, wickets continued to fall, with Nepal unable to form any significant partnerships. Owing to early collapses, Nepal could only reach 125-8 at the end of their 20 overs.
Among the notable contributors, Khadka’s 23 runs off 25 balls and a 28-run knock from Rana Magar were the best performances. Puja Mahato also played a brief cameo, scoring 18 runs off 18 balls. Netherlands’ bowlers dominated with Iris Zwilling, Caroline de Lange, and Heather Siegers all taking two wickets each, while Eva Lynch and Isabel van der Woning also added to the wicket tally.
With this defeat, Nepal faces an uphill battle in the tournament, where each team plays three matches against the others. The team will next play Thailand on Saturday, needing to turn their form around to remain in contention for the top spot in the series.