A half-century from Puja Mahato guided Nepal to a 19-run victory over China in the 2026 Women’s Asian Games T20 Qualifier in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.
The win took Nepal to the top of Group B with two points. China are also on two points after defeating Indonesia in their opening match, while Indonesia are yet to open their account.
Chasing 126 runs, China was restricted to 106 for five in 20 overs after Nepal’s bowlers tightened their grip in the closing stages.
China captain Mingyue Zhu top-scored with 30, while Wang Huiying made 21.
Riya Sharma led Nepal’s bowling by taking two wickets for 18. Manisha Upadhyay, Kabita Kunwar and Mahato picked up a wicket each.
Earlier, Nepal elected to bat after winning the toss and posted 125 for five.
Mahato struck 63 off 57 balls, hitting six fours. Sony Pakhrin scored 18, while Rubi Poddar added 22.
Mahato shared a 37-run partnership for the second wicket with Pakhrin before sharing a 64-run stand with Poddar to consolidate Nepal’s innings.
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