Tigresses finish T20 WC Qualifier warm-ups on high with win over Thailand

Bangladesh wrapped up their preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers on a positive note, registering a 34-run victory over Thailand in their second warm-up match at the Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmandu on Friday.

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh posted a competitive 149 for four from their allotted 20 overs. Juairiya Ferdous led the scoring with 31, while captain Nigar Sultana chipped in with 28. Sharmin Akhter added 27, and the innings gathered momentum at the death as Sobhana Mostary (24 not out) and Shorna Akter (23 not out) powered a strong lower-order finish.

In response, Thailand were restricted to 115 for seven despite a fighting unbeaten 52 off 48 balls from Nannapat Koncharoenkai. Chanida Sutthiruang provided brief support with a brisk 25 off 18, but the remainder of the batting lineup struggled against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack.

Pacer Fariha Trisna was the standout with the ball, returning figures of two for five, while Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan and Shorna Akter claimed one wicket apiece.

Bangladesh had earlier defeated the Netherlands by 26 runs in their opening warm-up match in Kritipur on Wednesday.

The Tigresses will begin their World Cup qualifying campaign against Group A opponents the USA on January 18, followed by matches against Papua New Guinea, Namibia and Ireland on January 20, 22 and 24 respectively.

The top three teams from Group A will advance to the Super Six stage, where they will face the top three sides from Group B. The top four teams from the Super Six will qualify for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in England and Wales in June and July this year.