The fifth match of Group A in the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026 sees Nepal Women take on United Arab Emirates (UAE) Women at the Terdthai Cricket Ground in Bangkok on February 15. With both sides coming off contrasting results in their opening fixtures, this encounter could significantly shape the points table. Nepal will be eager to bounce back after a defeat, while UAE will look to build on their impressive opening win.
Nepal suffered a 30-run loss against Pakistan A Women in their first game. Chasing 137 for 6, Nepal managed 107 for 6 in 20 overs. UAE, on the other hand, pulled off a confident chase against India A Women, hunting down 131 in 19.2 overs, showing composure and depth in their batting unit.
Squads:
Nepal Women’s Cricket Team
Puja Mahato (C), Suman Bista, Rubina Chhetry, Kabita Joshi, Anu Kadayat, Seemana KC, Samjhana Khadka, Kabita Kunwar, Sita Rana Magar, Rubi Poddar (WK), Bindu Rawal, Riya Sharma, Kajal Shrestha (WK), Roma Thapa, Manisha Upadhaya
United Arab Emirates Women’s Cricket Team
Esha Oza (C), Samaira Dharnidharka, Udeni Dona, Siya Gokhale, Heena Hotchandhani, Al Maseera Jahangir, Lavanya Keny, Suraksha Kotte, Vaishnave Mahesh, Keziah Miriam Sabin, Indhuja Nandakumar, Rinitha Rajith, Theertha Satish (WK), Athige Silva, Archara Supriya
Players to watch out:
Bindu Rawal
The 29-year-old left-hand batter remains a key figure for Nepal. In 47 WT20Is, she has scored 365 runs at a strike rate of 69.65. In the opener against Pakistan A, she played a fighting knock of 39, showing resilience when wickets were falling around her. Nepal will once again rely on her experience to stabilize the innings and contribute with the ball if required.
Kabita Kunwar
At 22, Kabita Kunwar is already an experienced campaigner with 65 WT20Is under her belt. The right-hand batter and right-arm medium pacer has scored 350 runs at a strike rate of 74 and picked up 57 wickets. In the first match, she scored 18* and delivered a tight spell of 2/10. Her all-round ability makes her one of Nepal’s most valuable assets.
Esha Oza
The UAE captain is the backbone of her side. With 110 WT20Is, she has amassed 3,126 runs at a strike rate of 118 and claimed 87 wickets. In the opening match against India A, she led from the front with a superb 72* and also chipped in with 2/30. Her ability to control the game in both departments makes her the biggest threat for Nepal.
Samaira Dharnidharka
The 18-year-old all-rounder has already featured in 77 WT20Is, scoring 427 runs at a strike rate of 84 and taking 55 wickets, including a best of 4/5. Against India A, she contributed 34 runs and scalped three crucial wickets. Her knack for breakthroughs in the middle overs could prove decisive once again.
Pitch:
The Terdthai Cricket Ground generally offers a balanced surface. Early in the innings, batters can play through the line with confidence, but as the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, assisting spinners and change of pace bowlers. Teams that rotate strike well and preserve wickets for the final overs usually gain the upper hand.
Weather:
Conditions are expected to be warm and slightly humid. The minimum temperature is forecast at 26°C, while the maximum could touch 34°C. There is a 40% chance of precipitation, with winds around 10 km/h and humidity at approximately 58%. While there is some possibility of brief interruptions, a full contest is likely.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Esha Oza, Bindu Rawal, Kabita Kunwar, Samaira Dharnidharka, Puja Mahato, Rubina Chhetry, Heena Hotchandhani, Vaishnave Mahesh, Sita Rana Magar, Theertha Satish, Indhuja Nandakumar
Match Details:
Date – February 15, 2026
Time – 8:00 AM IST
Venue – Terdthai Cricket Ground, Bangkok
Broadcast – The game will be live streamed on Sony Liv and telecasted on Sony Sports Network.
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