Women’s T20 Global Qualifier: Netherlands sets 141 against Nepal

KATHMANDU: Netherlands posted a competitive total of 140/5 in 20 overs against Nepal at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Thursday, setting a target of 141 for the hosts in the Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier.

Nepal made a bright start, with Somu Bista dismissing Dutch opener Faye Molkenboer for a duck.

The other opener, Heather Siegers, scored 13 runs off 5 balls, including three boundaries, before falling to Pooja Mahato.

Despite losing both openers in the first two overs, Netherlands’ captain Babette de Leede and Sterre Kalis forged a 79-run partnership for the third wicket.

Kalis, in impressive form, scored 30 off 34 balls with two boundaries before being bowled by Riya Sharma. De Leede contributed 49 runs off 47 balls, striking seven boundaries, before being cut and bowled by Rubina Chhetri.

Rubina Chhetri was the standout bowler for Nepal, taking 2 wickets for 21 runs in 3 overs, including the crucial scalp of Frederique Overdijk for 5 runs.

Robin Rijcke remained unbeaten on 19 off 17 balls, while Iris Zwilling scored 14 off 9 balls.

Netherlands had played their first match against Thailand on Sunday, losing narrowly.

With this win, they maintain their momentum in the tournament, having already secured victories in their opening two games, moving closer to the Super Six stage.

Currently ranked 14th in the ICC Women’s T20 rankings, Netherlands is competing in the T20 World Cup for the first time, while Nepal, ranked 21st, is making its debut in the global qualifier.

Last year, Nepal faced Netherlands in a triangular series at home and lost all three encounters.

In the tournament so far, Netherlands defeated Zimbabwe by 22 runs and Scotland by 7 runs, showcasing their consistent form in the lead-up to the Super Six.