History was scripted at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Ground on Friday as Nepal secured their first-ever ACC Women’s Twenty20 Asia Cup with a six-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates.
This victory is the most significant breakthrough for Nepali women’s cricket, as they had two campaigns without a single win in the Asia Cup. In 2012 and 2016, they lost against registered teams that included India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. However, today, they rewrote the script using a professional act.
Photo Credit: Deepak Malik / Asian Cricket Council / CREIMAS
Clinical Chase Secures Victory
While chasing the modest 116 set by the UAE, Nepal’s batting unit looked calm. Sheer belligerence, personified by Samjhana Khadka’s sizzling 72 off just 45 balls, held the game together. Her exquisite boundaries kept the required run rate within control. Rubina Chhetri and Pooja Mahato also provided instrumental support, contributing 10 and 7 runs, respectively.
UAE Falter With the Bat
After being asked to bat first after losing the toss, the UAE could only manage 116 runs on the board. Khushi Sharma, with 36 runs, and Kavisha Igodej, with 22, did give a good start, but the Nepali bowling tightened the screws in the middle overs. Captain Indu Burma herself orchestrated the bowling with three crucial wickets. Kirtika Marasini and Sabnam Rai chipped in with one wicket each to reduce the UAE to below par.
Nepal Eye Upset Against Pakistan
This sensational win will boost Nepal’s confidence as they head into a Monday clash against Pakistan. With their newfound belief, the Asia Cup remains wide open, and Nepal could well spring another surprise.
