Nepal defeated Uganda by one wicket in the Women’s Day Cup, ending a nine-match losing streak. U-19 skipper Puja Mahato excelled with a three-wicket haul and 16 runs, while debutant Sana Praveen was the top scorer with 17 runs. Nepal chased down Uganda’s total of 75 in 19.5 overs. This win sets the stage for their next match against Hong Kong.
Nepal triumphed over Uganda by one wicket in the Women’s Day Cup Twenty20 Series held in Entebbe, marking a significant turnaround for the Nepali women’s team, who had lost nine consecutive matches prior to this event. Their last victory came against the UAE in Sri Lanka on July 19, 2024.
U-19 skipper Puja Mahato played a crucial role in this match, excelling with both bat and ball and earning the Player of the Match title. She took three wickets and contributed 16 runs, leading Nepal to their first-ever victory on African soil.
Winning the toss, Nepal opted to field first. They successfully restricted Uganda to a total of 75 runs. Chasing a target of 76 runs, Nepal achieved victory by scoring 76 runs in 19.5 overs, losing nine wickets in the process.
Sana Praveen, in her debut for Nepal, emerged as the top scorer with 17 runs from 36 balls, bringing her total runs in her debut match to 17. Puja Mahato’s batting contribution included 16 runs off 29 balls, while former captain Rubia Chhetry added 10 runs. Ishwori Bist and Riya Sharma scored three and four runs, respectively.
For Uganda, Janet Mbabazi claimed three wickets in the match, while Sarah Walaza took two wickets. Immaculate Nakisuuyi led Uganda’s batting with 22 runs off 40 balls. Meanwhile, Malisa Ariokot and Stephanie Nampiina contributed 11 and 14 runs, respectively. Puja’s exceptional bowling performance was complemented by Indu Barma, who also took two wickets.
After starting the series with a win against Hong Kong, Uganda faced a setback against Nepal, who had lost their opening match against Namibia. Nepal’s next challenge will be against Hong Kong on Monday.
Nepal’s 1-wicket victory over Uganda in the Women’s Day Cup signifies a crucial win after a lengthy losing streak. Key performances by Puja Mahato and debutant Sana Praveen were instrumental in achieving this historic victory on African soil. This success sets a positive momentum as the Nepali women’s team prepares for their upcoming match against Hong Kong.
Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com
