Nepal Qualifies for Women's U-19 T20 World Cup
Nepal has secured its place in the Women's U-19 T20 World Cup for the first time. On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, Nepal defeated the host team UAE by eight wickets in the final match of the Asia Qualifier, earning a spot in the tournament to be held in Malaysia next year.
Nepal surpassed UAE based on net run rate, achieving a rate of 3.9353 compared to UAE's 3.7403. This achievement marks Nepal's Women's U-19 T20 World Cup debut.
In a high-pressure match, Nepal chased a modest target of 84 runs and achieved it in 14.4 overs with the loss of just two wickets. This crucial victory placed Nepal at the top of the points table with 10 points from 6 matches. Although UAE also had 10 points, they lagged behind Nepal due to the lower net run rate.
Nepal needed to defeat UAE within 16.2 overs to secure their World Cup qualification, a challenge they successfully overcame. The host team struggled to withstand Nepal's dominance in the decisive game.
UAE's Performance in the Qualifiers
UAE had won all five of their earlier matches in the qualifiers. They defeated Kuwait by margins of 106 and 184 runs, Thailand by 74 runs and nine wickets, and Nepal by 13 runs.
Nepal's Journey in the Qualifiers
On the other hand, Nepal showcased strong performances, defeating Kuwait by 108 and 165 runs and Thailand by 67 and 106 runs. Nepal also avenged their earlier loss to UAE by clinching a dominant victory in the final match.
Key Contributions
Opener Sana Praveen led the chase for Nepal with an unbeaten 35 runs off 42 balls. Captain Pooja Mahato scored 21 runs, while Soni Pakhreen did not go out with 13 runs. Opener Savitri Dhami contributed 12 runs. UAE's Mehak Thakur managed to take two wickets during Nepal's innings.
Earlier, UAE batted first after winning the toss and scored 83 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 20 overs. Samaira Dharanidhar top-scored with 31 runs, followed by Rinitha Ranjith with 20 runs off 18 balls. Induja Nandakumari and Lavanya Kenya added ten runs each.
In bowling, Nepal's Krishna Gurung delivered a standout performance, taking 4 wickets for 17 runs in her 4-over spell. Riya Sharma and Seema KC each claimed two wickets, while Rachana Kumari Chaudhary took one wicket.
Nepal's remarkable journey and first-ever qualification for the Women's U-19 T20 World Cup are historic moments for the nation's cricket.
Sports