Netherlands Women defeat Nepal Women by 20 runs

Kathmandu, January 30 — Netherlands Women defeated Nepal Women by 20 runs in the opening match of the Nepal Women’s T20I Tri-Series at Kirtipur today.

Netherlands Women set a target of 158 runs, finishing their innings at 157/4 in the allotted 20 overs. Nepal Women, however, fell short in their chase, posting 137/7 in 20 overs.

Robine Rijke was the standout performer for Netherlands Women, remaining unbeaten on 59 off 48 balls, while Iris Zwilling provided a late charge with 31 off just 13 balls.

Other significant contributions came from Sterre Kalis (29 off 35 balls) and Heather Siegers (23 off 19 balls).

For Nepal Women, Kabita Kunwar, Puja Mahato, and Sita Rana Magar each claimed a wicket.

In response, Nepal Women struggled to form partnerships. Sita Rana Magar top-scored with 28 runs off 45 balls, while Puja Mahato added a quickfire 24 from 14 balls, including two sixes. Kabita Joshi also chipped in with 27 runs off 17 balls.

The Netherlands bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings, with Eva Lynch and Caroline de Lange both claiming two wickets.

Lynch was particularly effective, dismissing Rubina Chhetry (11) and Puja Mahato (24). The best bowling figures came from Iris Zwilling, who returned 1/11 in her four overs.