As the sun rises over the vibrant city of Bangkok, anticipation crackles in the air at the Terdthai Cricket Ground. The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier 2025 has reached a pivotal juncture, with hosts Thailand set to lock horns with a resurgent Nepal in Super Three, Match 3. This contest promises not just fireworks but a celebration of how far women’s cricket in Asia has come.
Thailand, led by the ever-composed Naruemol Chaiwai, have been the tournament’s pace-setters. With 8 points from five matches, including three clinical victories and two rain-affected washouts, the home side stands tall as the only unbeaten team. Their dominance has already secured them a berth in the Global Qualifiers, but with Nepal breathing down their necks on 7 points, the stakes remain sky-high.
Nepal, under the astute leadership of Indu Barma, have been equally impressive. Three wins, alongside a solitary defeat and a washed-out fixture against Hong Kong, have propelled them to second place. With qualification assured, Nepal now eyes the chance to topple the hosts and stamp their authority on the group.
Team Form and Strengths
Thailand’s journey has been a masterclass in consistency and discipline. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Thipatcha Putthawong, has stifled opposition line-ups, while the top order, marshalled by Natthakan Chantham and wicketkeeper Nannapat Koncharoenkai, has ensured steady starts. Their sharp fielding has turned half-chances into match-defining moments.
Nepal, meanwhile, have built their campaign on resilience and collective spirit. Skipper Indu Barma’s counter-attacking brilliance and Kabita Kunwar’s incisive spells have been instrumental, especially in pressure situations where their composure has shone through.
Head-to-Head Record
Thailand holds an impeccable record against Nepal in the T20I format, winning all six previous encounters.
Squads
Nepal Women’s Cricket team:
Indu Barma (c), Bindu Rawal, Rajmati Airee, Samjhana Khadka, Kabita Joshi, Kabita Kunwar, Puja Mahato, Rubina Chhetry, Roma Thapa, Rubi Poddar, Ishwori Bist, Manisha Upadhayay, Riya Sharma, Sabnam Rai.
Thailand Women’s Cricket team:
Naruemol Chaiwai (c), Nattaya Boochatham, Natthakan Chantham, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, Chanida Sutthiruang, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Rosenanee Kanoh, Suleeporn Laomi, Thipatcha Putthawong, Suwanan Khiaoto, Phannita Maya, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Nannaphat Chaihan.
Players to Watch
Indu Barma (Nepal)
Indu Barma is more than just a tactician. Her calm presence under pressure and fierce competitive streak make her a role model for aspiring cricketers. Currently the leading run-scorer for her side with 70 runs at a strike rate of 140, she is yet to be dismissed in the ongoing tournament.
Thipatcha Putthawong (Thailand)
At just 21, Thipatcha Putthawong has emerged as Thailand’s spin sensation. She leads her team’s bowling charts and stands third overall in the tournament with five wickets in three innings at an average of 8 and an economy of 4. Her fearless approach and accuracy make her a key threat.
Manisha Upadhayay (Nepal)
Manisha seized her moment with a scintillating 4-wicket haul (4-0-20-4) against UAE. Her ability to swing the new ball and extract movement off the pitch makes her a vital asset in Nepal’s bowling attack.
Nannapat Koncharoenkai (Thailand)
Currently the leading run-scorer for Thailand and third overall in the tournament, Nannapat has scored 72 runs at a strike rate of 135.84 and an average of 36. Her fearless strokeplay and sharp wicketkeeping make her invaluable.
Pitch Report
The Terdthai Cricket Ground has offered a balanced surface throughout the tournament, providing early movement for seamers and turn for spinners as the game progresses.
Weather Conditions
Humid and cloudy conditions are expected, with a slight chance of showers. Captains might prefer to bowl first to exploit any early moisture on the surface.
Fantasy Playing XI
Nannapat Koncharoenkai (wk) (vice-captain), Natthakan Chantham, Chanida Sutthiruang, Indu Barma, Kabita Kunwar, Phannita Maya, Puja Mahato (captain), Nattaya Boochatham, Suleeporn Laomi, Thipatcha Putthawong, and Manisha Upadhayay.
Match Details
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Date: 20th May 2025 (Tuesday)
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Time: 8 AM IST
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Venue: Terdthai Cricket Ground, Bangkok
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Broadcast: The game will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.
