Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Nepal made a losing start in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, suffering an eight-wicket defeat to Thailand in the tournament opener.
Invited to bat first after losing the toss, Nepal were bowled out for 122 runs in 20 overs. Thailand chased down the target with the loss of just two wickets and 19 balls to spare.
Openers Sonu Khadka and Bindu Rawal gave Nepal a solid start, adding 52 runs in 5.2 overs. Rawal scored 44 off 56 balls, while Khadka struck a quickfire 26 off 11 balls. However, Nepal failed to build meaningful partnerships after the opening stand and lost wickets at regular intervals. Only Rubina Chhetry (17) and Puja Mahato (12) reached double figures.
Thipatcha Putthawong claimed four wickets for Thailand, while Onnicha Kamchomphu picked up two. Suleeporn Laomi and Sunida Chatrungrattana conceded just 16 runs each in their four-over spells, claiming a wicket apiece. Chanida Sutthiruang also took one wicket.
Thai batters made light work of the chase, putting on 66 runs for the first wicket. Aphisara Suwanchonrathi scored 28, while Nattakan Chantham remained unbeaten on 57 off just 39 balls. Nannapat Koncharoenkai contributed 32 off 25 balls.
Sita Rana Magar claimed both wickets for Nepal.
In the other match of the day, Bangladesh defeated the United States by 22 runs.
Batting first, Bangladesh scored 159 for five in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, the United States were restricted to 137 for nine.
