Scotland Crush Nepal by 72 Runs to Advance to Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier Super 6 Stage

Scotland have secured their place in the Super 6 stage of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup qualifiers with a commanding 72-run victory over hosts Nepal in Kirtipur. This triumph marked their fourth win in five group matches, positioning them firmly at the top of Group B.

Match Overview

In a crucial Group B encounter, Scotland demonstrated their credentials as serious contenders for World Cup qualification. Despite a shaky start, the Scottish side recovered brilliantly to post a competitive total before their bowlers dismantled the Nepalese batting lineup in emphatic fashion.

The victory ensures Scotland's progression to the next phase, where the stakes become even higher. The top four teams from the Super 6 stage will earn coveted spots at the Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in England from 12 June.

Scotland's Batting Performance: Recovery from Early Setbacks

Scotland's innings began disastrously, losing two wickets in the very first over. Nepal's Manisha Upadhayay struck early and struck hard, leaving the Scottish batting order reeling.

However, the visitors showed tremendous character and resilience. Priyanaz Chatterji emerged as the anchor of the innings, playing a mature and composed knock. Her unbeaten 45 was the cornerstone of Scotland's recovery, guiding her team to a defendable total of 140 runs.

Ailsa Lister provided valuable support with a contribution of 22 runs, helping stabilize the middle order after the early collapse. The partnership and subsequent contributions allowed Scotland to build momentum through the middle overs.

Nepal's Bowling Highlights

Manisha Upadhayay's exceptional spell deserves special mention. The right-armer finished with outstanding figures of 4-17, consistently troubling the Scottish batters with her variations. Rubina Chhetry complemented her brilliantly, claiming 3-23 to keep the pressure on throughout the innings.

Scotland's Bowling Dominance: Clinical Dismissal of Nepal

If Scotland's batting was about recovery and resilience, their bowling performance was a masterclass in collective brilliance. Five of their six bowlers claimed at least one wicket, showcasing remarkable depth in their attack.

Abtaha Maqsood was the standout performer with the ball, her spin proving too difficult for the Nepalese batters to handle. The off-spinner returned exceptional figures of 3-14, consistently finding ways to breach the defense and create opportunities for her team.

Nepal's Batting Struggles

Nepal's chase never gained any momentum. Bindu Rawal and Roma Thapa were the joint top-scorers with just 14 runs apiece, highlighting the struggles faced by the home side against Scotland's disciplined bowling unit.

Rubina Chhetry, who had earlier shone with the ball, managed 10 runs—the only other batter to reach double figures. Nepal were bowled out for a mere 68 runs in 13.5 overs, surrendering meekly in front of their home crowd.

Tournament Implications and Group B Standings

With this victory, Scotland moved to the top of Group B with four wins from five matches. However, the Netherlands can claim the group title if they defeat Thailand in the remaining fixture, with both teams already confirmed for the Super 6 stage.

In Group A, Bangladesh, Ireland, and the United States have already secured their Super 6 berths, setting up an intriguing final phase of the tournament.

Road to the Women's T20 World Cup

The Super 6 stage represents the final hurdle before World Cup qualification. Only the top four teams from this phase will punch their tickets to England for the main event, which runs from 12 June.

For Scotland, this victory provides not just qualification but also crucial confidence heading into the business end of the tournament. Their ability to recover from difficult situations and their bowling depth will be key assets as the competition intensifies.

Looking Ahead

Scotland will be keen to carry this momentum into the Super 6 stage. Priyanaz Chatterji's batting form and Abtaha Maqsood's bowling prowess give them genuine match-winners who can influence games at crucial moments.

The team's collective bowling effort—with five wicket-takers in a single match—suggests excellent depth and tactical flexibility that will serve them well against stronger opposition in the coming rounds.

As the qualifiers move into their decisive phase, Scotland have firmly established themselves as contenders who cannot be overlooked in the race for Women's T20 World Cup qualification.