Nepal lost to Namibia in their Women’s Day Cup opener, managing only 92 runs before Namibia chased a revised target of 71 runs in 15 overs. The team is optimistic about winning the series as they look ahead to matches against Uganda and Hong Kong on March 9 and 10, respectively.
Nepal commenced their participation in the Women’s Day Cup on a disappointing note, succumbing to Namibia in their opening match held at the Entebbe Cricket Oval. Despite winning the toss and opting to bat, Nepal could only muster 92 runs, marking their first encounter with Namibia in women’s cricket.
Key contributors for Nepal included opener Samjhana Khadka with 18 runs from 11 balls and Kabita Joshi, who scored 16 runs off 31 balls. The only other notable scores were from teenager Puja Mahato (13 off 20) and Ishwari Bist, who remained unbeaten on 17 runs from 14 balls.
Namibia’s bowlers, particularly Wilka Mwatile and Mekelanye Mwatile, troubled the Nepali side, each claiming three wickets with impressive economy, restricting runs significantly. Following disruption from rain, Namibia’s target was readjusted to 71 runs in 15 overs, which they achieved comfortably with two balls to spare.
Mekelanye Mwatile, apart from his bowling success, also emerged as Namibia’s leading scorer with 26 runs before his dismissal. Jurriene Diergaardt ensured Namibia’s victory by contributing 13 runs towards the end of the match. Nepal’s bowlers, including Mahato and Joshi, managed to take one wicket each but it was inadequate for a successful defense of their modest total.
Nepal’s loss to Namibia in their opening match of the Women’s Day Cup emphasized the areas needing improvement, particularly in batting stability. With their next games against Uganda and Hong Kong, they have opportunities to recover and strive for series victories, despite the initial setback. The team remains focused on their goal of clinching the series as they face Namibia again on March 12.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
