The Netherlands secured a 20-run victory over Nepal in the ongoing Triangular Women’s T20 Series at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur on Thursday. Chasing a target of 158, Nepal could only manage 137 runs in their allotted 20 overs, losing seven wickets in the process.

Sita Ranamagar was the highest run-scorer for Nepal, contributing 28 runs off 45 balls, including three boundaries. She was well-supported by Kabita Joshi, who made 27 runs off 17 balls, striking one four and two sixes. Puja Mahato added 24 runs from 14 balls, hitting two fours and a six, while Rubina Chhetri contributed 11 runs.

Other contributions came from Smriti Khadka (9), captain Indu Barma (7), and Kabita Kunwar (8), who all fell cheaply. Bindu Rawal and debutant Alisha Yadav were both left unbeaten on 3 and 4 runs, respectively.

For the Netherlands, Eva Lynch and Caroline de Lange were the standout bowlers. Lynch and Lange took two wickets each in their four overs.

Earlier, the Netherlands had been put into bat after winning the toss. They posted a total of 157 for four in their 20 overs, thanks to a solid half-century from Robine Rijke.

Nepal’s bowlers made an early impact, with Kabita Kunwar removing Fabe Molkenboer for a duck in the second ball of the innings. Puja Mahato maintained the team’s momentum dismissing Netherlands captain Babette de Leede for just 6 runs, giving Nepal a promising start.

However, a crucial partnership between Rijke and Sterre Kalis, who put on 47 runs for the third wicket, steadied the Dutch innings. Kalis was eventually dismissed for 29 runs by Sita Ranamagar. Rijke continued her strong innings, finishing on 57 not out from 47 balls, hitting eight boundaries. Iris Zwilling was also unbeaten on 31 runs off 13 balls, including five fours.

In the final five overs, the Netherlands added a quick 62 runs, finishing their innings strongly.

Nepal’s bowling effort saw Kabita Kunwar, Puja Mahato, Ishwori Bist, and Sita Ranamagar each taking a wicket. Kunwar and Mahato bowled tight spells. Kunwar conceded 14 runs in her two overs.

The Netherlands will now face Thailand on Friday, while Nepal will meet Thailand in the next match on Saturday. All three teams will play with every other team, and the side with the most points will be crowned the winner of the series.