Thailand couldn’t have asked for a better start to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026. They currently sit comfortably at the top of Group B with a dominant 8-wicket win over the hosts, Nepal, boasting a strong NRR of +1.326. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, find themselves in a bit of a hole. Despite a heroic five-wicket haul from Christabel Chatonzwa, they fell 22 runs short against the Netherlands. They are currently third in the group with 0 points and a NRR of -1.100, making this upcoming clash against the group leaders a vital must-win to stay in the hunt for the Super Six.

Squads:
Zimbabwe Women’s Cricket Team
Adel Zimunu, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Nyasha Gwanzura, Runyararo Pasipanodya, Beloved Biza, Christabel Chatonzwa, Josephine Nkomo, Kelis Ndhlovu, Chiedza Dhururu, Modester Mupachikwa, Francisca Chipare, Kudzai Chigora, Lindokuhle Mabhero, Loreen Tshuma, Nomvelo Sibanda
Thailand Women’s Cricket Team
Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, Nannaphat Chaihan, Naruemol Chaiwai, Natthakan Chantham, Rosenan Kanoh, Chanida Sutthiruang, Nattaya Boochatham, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Suwanan Khiaoto, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Phannita Maya, Suleeporn Laomi, Thipatcha Putthawong
Players to watch out:
Nyasha Gwanzura
Nyasha provided a spark of energy for Zimbabwe, contributing a quick-fire 27 runs during her time at the crease. She displayed an aggressive approach, hitting three boundaries and a six to finish with a highly impressive strike rate of 168.75. Even in a low-scoring game, her ability to find the boundary was a clear highlight for her side.
Christabel Chatonzwa
Christabel turned in a spectacular performance with the ball, tearing through the opposition to claim 5 wickets for just 22 runs. Her spell was the highlight of the match, as she made life difficult for every batter she faced, eventually earning a five-wicket haul. With an economy of 5.50, she was both restrictive and incredibly lethal.
Natthakan Chantham
Natthakan played a crucial, unbeaten role in Thailand’s successful chase, scoring 57 runs from just 39 balls. She looked in total command, smashing nine fours and a six to ensure her side reached the target with plenty of time to spare. Her strike rate of 146.15 highlights just how dangerous she can be when she gets set.
Thipatcha Putthawong
Thipatcha was instrumental in restricting the opposition, returning clinical figures of 4/27 in her four overs. She bowled with great control, never allowing the batters to settle and ending the day with a solid economy of 6.75. This four-wicket haul firmly establishes her as a key weapon for Thailand in these conditions.
Pitch:
Mulpani Cricket Ground offers a balanced turf wicket with true bounce and pace, favoring seamers early before spin grips later. T20 records from 13 matches show 151 average first innings score, with teams bowling first winning 8. The quick outfield and 60-70m boundaries encourage attacking cricket.
Weather:
The weather will be very similar, with sunny skies throughout the day. The high temperature will be 19°C, dipping to a low of 5°C after dark. Humidity will be around 50% with a gentle 6 mph breeze coming from the west, making for excellent playing conditions.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Nannaphat Chaihan, Natthakan Chantham, Nattaya Boochatham, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Thipatcha Putthawong, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Nyasha Gwanzura, Christabel Chatonzwa, Chiedza Dhururu, Loreen Tshuma, Nomvelo Sibanda
Match Details:
Date – January 20, 2025
Time – 8:45 AM IST
Venue – Mulpani Cricket Ground, Nepal
Broadcast – The game will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.

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