Kathmandu: Nepal women’s cricket team suffered a narrow three-run defeat to Malaysia in the opening match of their five-match Twenty20 International (T20I) bilateral series in Kuala Lumpur, on Thursday.

Put in to bat first, Malaysia posted 104-5 in their allotted 20 overs before restricting Nepal to 101-7 at the Bayuemas Oval.

In Nepal’s chase, Puja Mahato top-scored with 30 runs off 39 balls including three boundaries. Opener Samjhana Khadka (18 off 16), skipper Indu Barma (12 off 21) and Kabita Joshi (unbeaten 13 off 11) also reached double figures, but could not steer their side to victory.

For Malaysia, Nur Dania Syuhada shone with the ball claiming 3-10 from her four overs. Captain Winifred Duraisingam and Aisya Eleesa supported well, taking two wickets each.

Pictures from the match between Malaysia and Nepal during the Bilateral Series Malaysia Women vs Nepal Women T20i 2025 Bayuemas Oval on October 02, 2025 in Klang, Selangor, Malaysia. Photo by Peter Lim/PhotoDesk.com.my for Malaysian Cricket Association

Earlier, Malaysia’s innings was anchored by a 45-run stand for the second wicket between opener Ainna Hamizah and captain Duraisingam. Ainna scored 26 off 42 with three boundaries while Duraisingam made 27 off 41—the highest of the innings. Mas Elysa provided late impetus with a brisk 25 off 18, also striking three boundaries.

Nepal’s Somu Bista was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with 2-21 from her four overs, while Rubina Chhetry chipped in with one wicket.

The second T20I of the series is scheduled for Saturday.