Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier: Day 2 Wrap – Thrillers, nerve and perfect starts in Nepal

  • Thailand, Bangladesh and Netherlands stay unbeaten
  • USA register first win of the tournament
  • Multiple matches decided in the final overs

The second day of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier in Nepal delivered high drama and tightly contested cricket, with narrow margins separating victory and defeat across all four matches. Thailand, Bangladesh and the Netherlands maintained their perfect records, while the USA opened their account with a crucial win to stay in contention.

Thailand edge Zimbabwe in last-ball thriller

Thailand produced one of the most dramatic wins of the tournament, defeating Zimbabwe by one run in a pulsating finish. Defending 115, Thailand held their nerve in the final over as Phannita Maya executed a match-winning run out off the last ball, sealing a famous victory.

Maya was well supported by Thipatcha Putthawong, who returned figures of 2 for 27, as Zimbabwe were restricted to 114. Earlier, Thailand were anchored by Nannapat Koncharoenkai, whose composed 54 off 52 balls guided them to 115 for 7. The win keeps Thailand unbeaten and firmly on course for World Cup qualification.

Bangladesh extend winning run with dominant all-round display

Bangladesh continued their strong start to the Qualifier with a 30-run victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG), underlining their depth and balance. Batting first, the Tigers posted 168 for 5, powered by Shorna Akter’s explosive 37 off just 14 balls, striking at an impressive rate of over 260.

The bowling unit then shared the workload evenly, with six bowlers picking up a wicket each, restricting PNG to 138 for 9. The collective effort ensured Bangladesh preserved their perfect record after two matches.

USA secure first win with calm chase against Namibia

The USA recorded their first win of the tournament, defeating Namibia by four wickets in a crucial Group encounter. Namibia rode on a superb innings from Yasmeen Khan, who struck a commanding 74 off 47 balls, while Merczerly Gorases added 28 as they reached 144.

USA responded through Ella Claridge, whose composed 70 off 51 balls anchored the chase. Ritu Singh’s quickfire 21 off 10 provided the finishing touch as USA reached the target with four balls to spare, lifting them to third place on the points table.

Netherlands hold nerve to overcome Scotland

The Netherlands survived a tense finish to defeat Scotland by seven runs, maintaining their unbeaten run in Group B. Sterre Kalis starred with the bat, compiling a magnificent 87* off 60 balls, supported by Babette de Leede and Heather Siegers as the Dutch posted 157 for 6.

Scotland mounted a strong response led by Katherine Fraser and Kathryn Bryce, but crucial breakthroughs from Caroline de Lange and Silver Siegers turned the momentum. Despite a late push, the Netherlands closed out the contest to remain top of their group.

With close finishes, standout individual performances and qualification stakes rising, the Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Nepal is rapidly shaping into a fiercely competitive tournament where every run and every delivery matters.