Kirtipur, Koshi Pradesh – Nepal APF etched their name in the PM Cup Women’s T20 history books with a nail-biting 11-run victory over Koshi Province in a pulsating final at the TU Cricket Ground. APF, riding on an incredible unbeaten run throughout the tournament, sealed their fate as champions, leaving Koshi heartbroken after three agonizing losses to the same nemesis.

APF Bats Deep, Sets Challenging Target

After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, APF laid a solid foundation with an opening partnership that sizzled. In a player-of-the-match performance, Indu Barma carved out a classy 53 off 47 balls, peppering the boundary with six fours and a towering six. Jyoti Pandey and Roma Thapa provided support with contributions of 27 and 14, respectively, pushing APF to a competitive 114/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

However, Koshi’s fiery-paced bowler, Apsari Begam, refused to let APF breathe easily. Begam unleashed a devastating spell, snagging three wickets for a mere 21 runs in just four overs. Her final over etched itself in tournament lore, as she claimed a sensational hat-trick, dismissing Indu Barma, Neri Thapa, and Sonu Khadka in three consecutive deliveries to leave APF on the edge of their seats. Alisha Khadia chipped in with two wickets, while Rubina Chhetri and Nisha Shah took one each, but the damage was already done.

Koshi Fights Hard, Chhetri Shines but Falls Short

Koshi needed a captain’s knock in reply, and Rubina Chhetri delivered in spades. Leading by example, she crafted a well-paced 62 off 58 balls, adorning her innings with seven exquisite boundaries and a lusty six. Kajal Shrestha provided support with a handy 22, and the duo stitched together a crucial 60-run partnership that rekindled Koshi’s hopes.

However, APF’s bowling attack proved to be an unbreachable wall. Karuna Bhandari and skipper Sita Rana Magar tightened the screws, claiming one wicket each, and the Koshi chase faltered. Despite Chhetri’s heroics and a valiant effort from their teammates, Koshi fell agonizingly short by 11 runs, succumbing to their third defeat against APF in the tournament.

Unbeaten APF Claim the Crown

APF’s dominant run throughout the PM Cup culminated in a well-deserved championship victory. Their consistency, coupled with their unwavering hunger for glory, paved the way for their ultimate triumph. Though unlucky not to secure the title, Koshi should be commended for their fighting spirit.

With APF as champions, the PM Cup Women’s T20 has concluded thrillingly, leaving fans yearning for more action in the future. The tournament provided a platform for Nepal’s rising female cricket stars to showcase their talent and inspire future generations. As APF lifts the trophy, one thing is clear: the future of women’s cricket in Nepal is bright and brimming with endless possibilities.