A brilliant all-round performance from Puja Mahato powered Nepal Women to a six-wicket victory over Malaysia Women in the second T20I at Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur, leveling the five-match series 1–1.
After being asked to bat first, Malaysia managed 91/4 in 20 overs. Opener Ainna Hamizah Hashim carried her bat through the innings with a patient 50 not out off 63 balls, anchoring the hosts' total.
Winifred Duraisingam (15) and Mahira Izzati Ismail (8) offered brief support as Nepal's bowlers maintained tight control throughout.
Nepal's bowling attack was disciplined once again, led by Somu Bist (2/18) and Puja Mahato (1/8), with Kabita Joshi (0/13) and Rachana Chaudhary (0/14) keeping the run rate below five.
In response, Nepal showed composure in the chase, reaching 93/4 in 16.2 overs.
Puja Mahato produced a match-winning knock of 39 off 39 balls with four boundaries, guiding the innings with confidence.
Skipper Indu Barma remained unbeaten on 27 off 21 balls, finishing the chase in style alongside Rubina Chhetry (8*).
Rubi Poddar (15) provided an early boost after the loss of two quick wickets.
With this win, Nepal Women bounced back strongly after a narrow defeat in the series opener. The five-match T20I series now stands level at 1–1, setting up an exciting third encounter at the same venue on October 5.
