Nepal Women suffered a heavy 72-run defeat against Scotland Women in the 17th Match (Group B) of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Monday.
After winning the toss and opting to field first, Nepal restricted Scotland to 140 all out in 20 overs, but the home side’s chase never got going as Nepal were skittled for just 68/9 in 13.5 overs, with skipper Indu Barma forced to retire hurt during the innings.
Chatterji powers Scotland to a competitive total
Scotland posted a fighting total of 140 despite losing wickets at regular intervals, thanks largely to a brilliant unbeaten knock from Priyanaz Chatterji, who top-scored with 45 off 28 balls*, hitting seven boundaries.
At the end of the 12th over, Nepal had Scotland under pressure at 79/6, but Chatterji produced a gem of an innings to lift Scotland to a commanding total. Ailsa Lister (22 off 24) and Sarah Bryce (18 off 18) provided support through the middle, while Megan McColl (17 off 14) added crucial runs towards the end.
For Nepal, Manisha Upadhayay, playing her first match of the tournament, delivered an outstanding spell of 4/17 in 4 overs, while veteran captain Rubina Chhetry claimed 3/23. Nepal’s bowlers fought hard, but 13 extras (including 11 wides) also played a key role in pushing Scotland beyond the 140-mark.
Nepal collapse after losing early wickets
In reply, Nepal’'s batting lineup collapsed under pressure as wickets fell in clusters. Bindu Rawal (14 off 13) and Roma Thapa (14 off 11)* were the only batters to reach double figures, while Rubina Chhetry chipped in with 10 off 8.
Nepal were 30/3 when vice-captain and in-form Puja Mahato was dismissed, putting the hosts in deeper trouble. To worsen Nepal’s situation, captain Indu Barma retired hurt on 5, a blow that further dented the chase as the remaining batters struggled to build partnerships.
Scotland’s bowling attack was disciplined and ruthless, led by Abtaha Maqsood (3/14) and supported by Kathryn Bryce (2/14) and Katherine Fraser (2/11). Nepal were eventually dismissed for 68 inside 14 overs, sealing a comprehensive victory for Scotland.
With this defeat, Nepal Women's dream of qualifying for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 has ended, as they are now out at the group stage. Nepal had earlier lost to Thailand and the Netherlands, but managed to defeat Zimbabwe, finishing their campaign with just one win and two points.
Super Six lineup confirmed
The result also confirmed the three teams advancing from Group B — Scotland, the Netherlands, and Thailand have qualified for the Super Six stage.
In Group A, USA booked their place in the Super Six after beating Papua New Guinea by five wickets, joining Bangladesh and Ireland as the three qualifiers from the group.
With all six Super Six teams confirmed, the competition now moves into the decisive phase, where the top four sides from the Super Six will secure qualification for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, set to be held in England in June.
