UAE-W scored 115/8 in 20 overs, where as NEP-W scored 118/4 in 16.1 overs.
So, finally NEP-W beat UAE-W by 6 wickets.
Opening batter Samjhana Khadka played a brilliant unbeaten innings of 72 off 45 balls, leading Nepal to a decisive six-wicket victory over the UAE in the opening game of the Asia Cup 2024 in Dambulla on Friday (July 19).
Choosing to bowl first, Nepal’s dynamic performance in both bowling and fielding restricted the UAE to a modest total of 115 on a favorable batting surface.
Khadka’s stellar knock was pivotal as Nepal completed the chase with 23 balls to spare, marking their first-ever win in the Asia Cup.
The difference: Intent across all departments
UAE’s batting was marred by a lack of solid partnerships, resulting in a total well below par.
Khushi Sharma (36 off 39) and Kavisha Egodage (22 off 26) were the only batters to make a significant contribution, but their efforts lacked momentum.
In contrast, Nepal demonstrated intent from the start, applying consistent pressure on the opposition.
Their bowling and fielding were sharp throughout, with only occasional lapses.
UAE
Powerplay: Nepal strikes early with the new ball
Phase score: 38/3 [RR: 6.33, 4s/6s: 6/0]
The first six overs saw UAE scoring at their fastest rate but losing three crucial wickets in the process.
Skipper Indu Barma (3-19) claimed the vital wicket of Theertha Satish, while UAE’s captain Esha Rohit Oza ran herself out, giving Nepal a strong start.
Despite a few boundaries, the three wickets ensured that Nepal dominated the Powerplay.
Middle Overs: UAE batters struggle
Phase score: 48/2 [RR: 5.33, 4s/6s: 3/0]
Once the fielding restrictions were lifted, UAE found it challenging to maintain the scoreboard momentum due to poor strike rotation.
While their Powerplay total was bolstered by boundaries, the spread field made it difficult to score consistently.
Nepal’s bowlers maintained tight lines and restricted the run flow.
Death Overs: A disappointing finish
Phase score: 29/3 [RR: 4.83, 4s/6s: 1/0]
UAE aimed for a total above 120, if not 130, but their innings ended on a low note.
With only one boundary in the final five overs, Nepal’s bowlers continued to be economical, and UAE’s batters failed to accelerate. As a result, they finished well below the 120-run mark.
NEPAL
Powerplay: Samjhana off to a strong start
Phase score: 39/1 [RR: 6.50, 4s/6s: 5/0]
Nepal’s chase began confidently with Samjhana Khadka hitting two boundaries in the first over.
Their Powerplay total, just one run more than UAE’s, was notable for its lack of early wickets, putting pressure on UAE to defend a low total.
Samjhana’s aggressive play set the tone for Nepal’s chase.
Middle Overs: UAE fight back, but Nepal maintains control
Phase score: 63/3 [RR: 7.00, 4s/6s: 7/0]
Though UAE picked up a few wickets in the middle overs, they failed to create a significant collapse.
Samjhana continued to dominate, ensuring a steady flow of runs and keeping the pressure on UAE.
Nepal’s scoring rate remained strong, giving UAE little opportunity to regain control.
Death Overs: The chase completed in style
Phase score: 16/0 [RR: 13.71, 4s/6s: 2/0]
With only 16 runs required from the last 30 balls, Samjhana finished the chase with flair.
Nepal wrapped up the game in just seven more deliveries, securing a comprehensive victory.
This result not only boosted the morale of Barma’s team but also significantly improved their net run rate with the swift finish.
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