Four teams open women’s World Cup qualifier with victories

Thailand, Bangladesh, Ireland and the Netherlands won their opening matches at the Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Nepal. Ten teams were competing for four remaining places at the tournament in England and Wales. Thailand beat hosts Nepal by eight wickets.

Thipatcha Putthawong took four wickets for 27 before Natthakan Chantham scored 57 from 39 balls in Thailand’s chase. Bangladesh reached 159 for five against the United States, with Sharmin Akhter contributing 63. Nahida Akter then claimed four wickets for 24.

Ireland defeated Papua New Guinea by 41 runs after Orla Prendergast scored 56. The Netherlands overcame Zimbabwe by 22 runs despite Christabel Chatonzwa taking five wickets. Sterre Kalis and Phebe Molkenboer shared a 53-run partnership for the Dutch.