By Bootballer Desk • Cricket • Mar 13, 2025 14:57 PM • 209 views
Kathmandu — Nepal's hopes of advancing in the Women's T20 International Tournament ended on Thursday, as the team suffered a crushing 40-run defeat against hosts Uganda at the Entebbe Cricket Oval.
With just one win from five matches and only two points on the board, Nepal now sits at the bottom of the table, officially bowing out of contention for a spot in the final.
The defeat marked Nepal's fourth in the tournament, following earlier losses to Namibia (by six wickets and 23 runs in separate encounters) and a narrow two-run heartbreak against Hong Kong. Their only victory came in a dramatic one-wicket win over Uganda in their first meeting—now a lone bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming campaign.
Chasing a modest target of 92 runs, Nepal's batting lineup faltered spectacularly, collapsing for just 51 runs in 17.1 overs. Apart from Kabita Kunwar (12) and skipper Indu Barma (11), none of the batters reached double digits, underscoring Nepal's batting woes.
Uganda's bowlers capitalized on Nepal's fragile batting order. Irene Mutoni and Immaculate Nakisuyi led the charge with three wickets, while Janet Mbabazi and Konli Latte chipped in with a wicket each.
After electing to bat first, Uganda posted 91 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Ruth Musamali anchored the innings with a solid 38, while Esther Iluku (22) and Stephanie Nampina (13*) provided key contributions.
Nepal's bowlers made a respectable show, with Riya Sharma picking up two wickets. Pooja Mahato, Ishwari Bista, and Rubina Chhetri each claimed a wicket, but the batting collapse overshadowed their efforts.
With this loss, Nepal exits the tournament with more questions than answers—particularly in the batting department—highlighting the need for introspection and rebuilding ahead of future international assignments.
