In the course of the last seven months, the Nepal’s women’s cricket team has undergone a striking evolution, achieving unprecedented success and establishing themselves as the pioneers on both the regional and global cricketing stage.
Breakthrough on the World Stage: Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025
A major milestone arrived in November 2024, as Nepal’s Under-19 Women’s squad, led by skipper Puja Mahato, turned heads by clinching their first-ever berth at the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup, which took place in 2025. This achievement not only elevated their status but also marked the beginning of a new era of women’s cricket in Nepal.
Their breakthrough came after a decisive win over the United Arab Emirates at the Asia Qualifier. With net run rate calculations providing extra pressure, Nepal’s bowlers, notably Krishma Gurung, who claimed four wickets, held their nerve to restrict UAE to just 83 runs, before the batters smoothly chased down the target in under 15 overs.
In their World Cup campaign, Nepal faced off against teams such as Australia and Bangladesh and clinched a notable win against hosts Malaysia. Their spirited display at this global stage has set a strong foundation for the growth of women’s cricket back home.
Breaking Ground in Regional Cricket: Entry to the Women’s Under-19 Asia Cup
Riding on the highs from their World Cup qualification, Nepal’s young cricketers used it as fuel of inspiration and continued to script history in the inaugural edition of the ACC Women’s Under-19 Asia Cup. Their entry into this prestigious regional tournament further showcased their growing prominence and competitive spirit.
Their campaign got off to a dream start with a history victory over Pakistan, thanks to a match-winning, all-round display from Puja Mahato, who shone with both bat and ball. However, weather disruptions, including washed-out matches against India and Sri Lanka, limited Nepal’s chances of advancing further in the tournament. Despite this setback, the tournament offered Nepal’s young squad crucial exposure and competitive experience in the Asian circuit.
Hosting the First-ever International Tri-nation Series (Jan–Feb 2025)
In a significant stride for the nation’s cricket infrastructure, Nepal staged its inaugural women’s international tri-series at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, featuring Thailand and the Netherlands alongside the hosts. Although Nepal did not come out on top, facing quality opponents in front of home supporters elevated both the team’s confidence and the profile of women’s cricket in Nepal. The tournament also marked Nepal’s first official T20 Internationals against the Netherlands, broadening their international horizons.
First Experience Playing Beyond Asia
Another breakthrough for Nepal’s women’s squad came with their very first matches outside the Asian continent. Competing at the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia and other fixtures outside their usual region, the players were exposed to new conditions and higher standards of play. This international experience will prove vital as Nepal continues to build a globally competitive side.
Senior Team Reaches the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier
On 19 May 2025, Nepal’s senior women’s team reached new heights by qualifying for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier for the first time. In Bangkok, they sealed their place with a crucial five-wicket win over the United Arab Emirates. Captain Indu Barma led with an unbeaten 30 runs and was named Player of the Match, while Manisha Upadhyay’s four wickets ensured Nepal crossed the finish line.
With their latest qualification, Nepal’s senior women’s team has positioned itself among Asia’s emerging elite, now set to challenge the continent’s top sides for a place at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. This marks a significant leap in their international aspirations.
Looking Ahead: Inspiration and Impact
Currently, Nepal’s women’s cricket is in the midst of an extraordinary phase, marked by a series of groundbreaking accomplishments and swift advancement. Their recent feats are not only rewriting the nation’s sporting history but also inspiring a new generation of female athletes across Nepal.
From qualifying for global events and hosting international rivals to breaking regional boundaries, the team’s momentum is undeniable. As they prepare for bigger stages and tougher competition, Nepal’s women cricketers have captured the automation of the cricketing world and are well on their way to becoming a force to be reckoned with in international women’s cricket.
