Nepal lost to Namibia in their first match of the Women’s Day Cup, scoring only 92 runs. Namibia chased down the revised target of 71 runs successfully. Key players for Nepal struggled, although some made notable contributions. With five matches remaining, there is still potential for Nepal to perform better in the tournament.
Nepal suffered a defeat in their opening match of the Women’s Day Cup against Namibia at the Entebbe Cricket Oval. Winning the toss, Nepal opted to bat first and finished with a total of just 92 runs. This was their inaugural encounter in women’s cricket with Namibia. Key contributors included opener Samjhana Khadka (18 runs), Puja Mahato (13), Kabita Joshi (16), and Ishwari Bist who remained not out with 17 runs.
Namibia’s Wilka Mwatile and Mekelanye Mwatile proved to be difficult opponents, each claiming three wickets while allowing just 17 and 12 runs, respectively. Nepal’s innings dwindled further when rain halted Namibia’s batting, adjusting the target they needed to chase down to 71 runs in 15 overs post-resumption. Namibia achieved this target with only six wickets lost and two balls remaining.
Mekelanye Mwatile, who was impactful with the ball, also top-scored for Namibia, contributing 26 runs. Jurriene Diergaardt played a crucial role in securing the win, finishing with 13 runs off 7 balls. Nepal’s bowlers Mahato, Joshi, captain Indu Barma, and Bist each took one wicket, but it was not enough to alter the outcome of the match.
Despite this initial loss, Nepal’s captain Barma and coach Manoj Katwal expressed optimism about the series. Nepal still has five matches left in the double round-robin format. Upcoming fixtures include games against Uganda and Hong Kong on March 9 and 10, prior to another clash with Namibia on March 12.
Nepal’s defeat against Namibia in their opening Women’s Day Cup match highlights their struggle with batting and bowling under pressure. With their next matches on March 9 and 10, they remain hopeful to turn their performance around in the ongoing tournament. Despite setbacks, they still have the opportunity to demonstrate resilience in the remaining fixtures.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
