Nepal clinch historic Global Qualifier berth

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted May 19, 2025

Nepal have secured a spot in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier for the first time with a five-wicket win over UAE in the super three of the Asia Qualifier.

Electing to field first at the Terdthai Cricket Ground, Thailand, Nepal restricted UAE to 114/7 from 20 overs before chasing the 115-run target with three balls remaining.

UAE skipper Esha Oza top-scored for her team with a run-a-ball 39, which included two boundaries and a maximum. Esha was well supported by Theertha Satish for a 45-run opening stand before Rajmati Airee provided Nepal with the first breakthrough.

Heeta Hotchandani played a good cameo of 20 off 16 to push UAE to a challenging 114.

Manisha Upadhyay ran through UAE's middle order, ending with 4/20 from her four-over spell, while Kabita Kunwar also chipped in with two important wickets in the 20th over.

Nepal's chase began strongly before Rajmati Airee fell to a direct hit from Michelle Botha. Samjhana Khadka added a gritty 21 off 27 with three boundaries, but at 62/4, Nepal found themselves in trouble.

Rubina Chhetry (23) stepped in and partnered with skipper Indu Barma for an important 37-run stand, injecting momentum back into the chase.

Indu Barma ensured Nepal crossed the line, remaining unbeaten with 30 off 28 deliveries, including two boundaries. Her composed innings earned her a back-to-back Player of the Match award, which she chose to share with Manisha Upadhyay.

Esha Oza, Michelle Botha, Vaishnave Mahesh, and Suraksha Kotte chipped in with a wicket each for UAE.

Nepal will face Thailand on Tuesday in their final fixture of the tournament. Both Nepal and Thailand have booked their place in the global qualifier to be held in early 2026.