KATHMANDU: Hosts Nepal’s hopes of securing first victory in the Nepal Women’s T20I Tri-Series were dashed once again as they suffered a crushing 10-wicket defeat against the Netherlands at the TU Ground in Kirtipur, Wednesday. 

This marked Nepal’s fifth consecutive loss in the Series and their third defeat to the Dutch side. Nepal are already out of the title contention while the victory keeps the Dutch side alive for contention.   

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Nepal posted a competitive total of 145-4, thanks largely to a brilliant unbeaten knock from young batting sensation Puja Mahato who scored an unbeaten half century. The Netherlands made light work of the run chase as openers Sterre Kalis and Phebe Molkenboer forged an unbroken opening partnership of 151 runs, sealing victory with ease in 19.4 overs.

Nepal faced early setbacks after openers Samjhana Khadka (6) and Mamta Chaudhary (1) departed cheaply. But Puja stabilized the innings in partnership with captain Indu Barma. Puja anchored the innings with 62 runs off 51 balls, featuring five boundaries and registering the first half-century for Nepal in the series.

The duo added a crucial 78-run stand for the third wicket. Barma contributed 39 runs from 37 deliveries, including five boundaries. Veteran Rubina Chhetry chipped in with a quick 20 off 17 balls, striking three fours. Kabita Joshi remained unbeaten on seven runs.

For the Netherlands, Iris Zwilling was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 wickets for 25 runs in her four-over spell. Caroline de Lange and Heather Siegers took a wicket apiece.

The Netherlands made light work of the chase, showcasing a dominant batting display and achieving the target without losing wickets. Sterre Kaliswas the standout performer, narrowly missing out on a century as she finished unbeaten on 98 off 69 balls, smashing 11 boundaries and two sixes.Phebe Molkenboer  played the perfect supporting role with 48 not out off 49 balls, including four boundaries.

The Netherlands sit second on the table with six points from five matches. They have secured all their wins against Nepal but have struggled against Thailand, losing both encounters. Thailand currently top the standings with a perfect record of four wins from four matches, while Nepal languishes at the bottom, yet to register a point after five games.

The Netherlands will vie against Thailand on Thursday while the Series wraps up with Nepal taking on Thailand on Friday. The event is being played in a triple round robin league format.