The stage is set for an exciting clash as Malaysia Women face Nepal Women in the 2nd T20I at Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur, on May 22, 2026. Both teams are eager to build momentum ahead of the Asian Games Women’s Qualifier, making this match significant beyond just a bilateral fixture.
Nepal Women enter with confidence, having historically dominated this rivalry, 11 wins over Malaysia’s six, off 17 T20Is between them, but Malaysia, backed by home advantage, are determined to challenge. The opening T20I was another low-scoring, closely contested game between the two sides. Nepal restricted the hosts to 67, with only Elsa Hunter managing a double-digit score (10), and in reply Samjhana Khadka’s 32 proved just enough in Nepal’s 2-wicket win.
Squads:
Malaysia Women’s Cricket Team
Elsa Hunter, Mas Elysa, Nazatul Hidayah Husna, Ainna Hashim, Amalin Sorfina, Mahirah Izzati, Nur Izzatul Syafiqa, Suabika, Aina Najwa, Wan Julia, Aisya Eleesa, Marsya, Nazwah, Nur Dania Syuhada
Nepal Women’s Cricket Team
Indu Barma, Puja Mahato, Suman Bist, Rachana Chaudhary, Rubina Chhetry, Kabita Joshi, Anu Kadayat, Samjhana Khadka, Kabita Kunwar, Rubi Poddar, Bindu Rawal, Riya Sharma, Roma Thapa, Manisha Upadhayay
Players to watch out:
Mas Elysa
Mas Elysa remains Malaysia’s most experienced batter and a crucial player heading into the 2nd T20I against Nepal Women. In 98 WT20Is, she has scored 1,543 runs with the highest score of 67, proving her consistency at the top order. Along with her batting, Elysa’s medium-pace bowling gives Malaysia added balance. She has also taken 44 wickets with the best figures of 6/3. If she settles early and builds partnerships, Malaysia can challenge Nepal strongly.
Mahirah Izzati Ismail
Mahirah Izzati Ismail is expected to play a major role for Malaysia Women with her disciplined off-spin bowling and top-order batting contributions. In 79 WT20Is, she has taken 70 wickets at an impressive average of 15.38 and an economy rate of 4.53, highlighting her control during middle overs. She has also added 650 runs to the tally, at a strike rate of 67.07, and registered the highest of 44*. While she’s reliable with the bat, if she clicks with the bat, it could set the game in Malaysia’s favour.
Indu Barma
Nepal Women’s captain Indu Barma continues to be the backbone of her team with both bat and ball. Across 91 WT20Is, she has scored 1,199 runs with the highest score of 55*, showcasing her reliability in pressure situations. Her calm leadership and ability to build partnerships make her one of Nepal’s most important players. Indu also contributes with her medium-pace bowling, scalping 41 wickets in 47 innings, with the best of 3/5.
Kabita Kunwar
Kabita Kunwar remains Nepal Women’s biggest bowling threat heading into the 2nd T20I. In 74 WT20Is, she has claimed 73 wickets at a remarkable average of 12.05 while maintaining an outstanding economy rate of 4.08. Her ability to swing the new ball and strike early makes her dangerous in humid Kuala Lumpur conditions. She has also chipped in scoring 409 runs in 50 batting innings. Another strong spell from Kabita could heavily tilt the match in Nepal’s favour.
Pitch:
Although the pitch is typically a batting paradise, the high humidity and significant cloud cover will allow bowlers to achieve vital movement. The damp conditions in the air will provide an early swing for the seamers, but if the rain holds off, the pitch will greatly benefit the batters.
Weather:
Expect hot and highly humid conditions with a high of 32°C, along with a significant chance of daytime thunderstorms that may disrupt play.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Elsa Hunter, Mas Elysa, Nazatul Hidayah Husna, Ainna Hashim, Mahirah Izzati, Indu Barma, Puja Mahato, Rubina Chhetry, Kabita Joshi, Samjhana Khadka, Kabita Kunwar
Match Details:
Date – May 22, 2026
Time – 8:00 AM IST
Venue – Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur
Broadcast – T.B.C.
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