Scotland Women delivered an exceptional performance to defeat Nepal Women by a commanding 72 runs in the 17th match of the Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026. After winning the toss, Nepal chose to field first, a decision that initially seemed justified but eventually backfired as Scotland recovered well from early setbacks and then dominated with the ball.
Scotland’s innings began on an uncertain note as Nepal struck early. Darcey Carter and Katherine Fraser were dismissed cheaply, and captain Kathryn Bryce also fell at just 8 runs, leaving Scotland under pressure inside the powerplay. Sarah Bryce looked positive during her stay at the crease, scoring 18 runs, but her dismissal further dented Scotland’s momentum. At 69 for five, Nepal appeared to be well on top, with Manisha Upadhayay leading the attack and making regular breakthroughs.
Just when Scotland needed stability, Priyanaz Chatterji stepped up with a calm yet attacking innings that changed the course of the match. Batting with great maturity, she paced her knock beautifully, finding gaps consistently and punishing loose deliveries. Chatterji remained unbeaten on an excellent 45 off 28 balls, striking seven boundaries and lifting Scotland to a competitive total. Ailsa Lister played a valuable supporting role with a steady 22, while Megan McColl added quick runs with a handy 17.
Their contributions in the latter half of the innings helped Scotland finish strongly at 140 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. Nepal’s bowling had bright moments, particularly through Manisha Upadhayay, who was outstanding with figures of four wickets for 17 runs. Rubina Chhetry also impressed with three wickets, using her experience to trouble the batters. However, Scotland’s late surge and the flow of extras allowed the total to grow beyond what Nepal would have been comfortable chasing.
In reply, Nepal’s chase never found rhythm as Scotland’s bowlers applied immediate pressure. Openers Bindu Rawal and Samjhana Khadka showed brief promise, but regular wickets kept Nepal on the back foot. The situation worsened when captain Indu Barma was forced to retire hurt, leaving Nepal struggling to rebuild. Partnerships were hard to come by as Scotland tightened the screws with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
Abtaha Maqsood was the standout performer with the ball, finishing with impressive figures of three for 14 and effectively dismantling Nepal’s middle order. Kathryn Bryce led from the front as she took 2 wickets, while Katherine Fraser provided excellent support and took 2 wickets as well. Nepal were eventually bowled out for just 68 in 13.5 overs, with Roma Thapa remaining unbeaten on 14 in an otherwise disappointing batting effort.
The emphatic win underlined Scotland’s strength and balance as a side, boosting their confidence in the qualifiers. Nepal, meanwhile, will look to regroup and address their batting concerns as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
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