Kathmandu: The Netherlands pulled off a dramatic one-wicket victory over Thailand in the Nepal Women’s T20I Tri-Series at TU Ground, Kirtipur, on Thursday in a last ball thriller to remain in title contention handing the Thais first defeat of the tournament.

Opting to bat first, Thailand found themselves in deep trouble early on before recovering to post a moderate total of 109-5. In the run chase, the Netherlands were made to wait until the last ball to secure their first ever victory over the Thais after the third encounter. 

The Netherlands’ bowling attack, led by Iris Zwilling dismantled the top order, reducing Thailand to 10-3. Zwilling finished with figures 4-0-9-3. 

However, a crucial 66-run stand between Natthakan Chantham and Chanida Sutthiruang for the fifth wicket revived the innings. Chantham remained unbeaten on 36 off 46 balls, anchoring the innings, while Sutthiruang played a crucial  knock of 32 runs off 28 deliveries, striking four boundaries. 

Captain Naruemol Chaiwai contributed 15 runs off 26 balls before falling to Siegers. Late cameos from Suwanan Khiaoto (not out 10 runs off 4) ensured Thailand reached a modest total. 

Chasing 110 for victory, the Netherlands started steadily, with openers Phebe Molkenboer (32 off 42) and Sterre Kalis (14 off 12) laying a decent foundation. Robine Rijke further strengthened the chase with a composed 20 off 21. By the 13th over, the Dutch seemed in control at 76-3.

But a sudden collapse saw the Netherlands slump to 85-7 by the end of the 15th over, as Thai bowlers Thipatcha Putthawong (4-12) and Onnicha Kamchomphu (3-19) ran riot. With just eight runs needed from the final over, the game hung in the balance.

Silver Siegers (not out 7 off 6) and Isabel van der Woning (not out 5 off 3) held their nerve in a tense finish. Siegers managed to score two runs in the last delivery to seal the stunning victory for the Netherlands.

With this result, both Thailand and the Netherlands now sit on eight points but the Thais sit on top on the basis of  net run rate. Thailand still have one match left against hosts Nepal, who are yet to register a win in the tournament. A victory for Thailand would secure them the title, while the Netherlands will be hoping for an upset to boost their own chances.