Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier Day 2: Thailand's Last-Ball Thriller, Bangladesh Dominates, USA Claims First Win

The second day of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier in Nepal delivered an enthralling mix of nail-biting finishes and commanding displays, with Thailand, Bangladesh, Netherlands, and USA all emerging victorious across four compelling encounters.

Thailand Edge Zimbabwe in Last-Ball Thriller

In what will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the tournament's most dramatic contests, Thailand preserved their unbeaten record with a heart-stopping one-run victory over Zimbabwe.

Batting Performance

Thailand's innings was anchored by the experienced Nannapat Koncharoenkai, who delivered a composed half-century of 54 runs from 52 balls. Her measured approach provided the foundation as Thailand posted 115/7 in their allotted 20 overs—a total that would prove just enough.

Bowling Performance

The Thai bowling attack rose to the occasion under immense pressure. Thipatcha Putthawong was instrumental with figures of 2/27 from her four overs, consistently troubling the Zimbabwean batters.

However, the hero of the hour was Phannita Maya, who took on the daunting responsibility of bowling the final over with the game hanging in the balance.

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Match-Winning Moment

With Zimbabwe needing just two runs off the final delivery, Maya held her nerve superbly. The ball was struck straight back to her, and she completed a match-winning run out to seal a famous victory. Zimbabwe finished agonizingly one run short, as Thailand moved a significant step closer to their Women's T20 World Cup dreams.

Bangladesh Cruise Past Papua New Guinea

Bangladesh continued their dominant run in the qualifiers, securing a comprehensive 30-run victory over Papua New Guinea to maintain their perfect record.

Batting Performance

The Tigers demonstrated their depth with multiple contributors pushing them to an imposing 168/5. The standout performer was Shorna Akter, who produced a blistering cameo of 37 runs from just 14 deliveries at a remarkable strike rate of 264.28. Her explosive innings set the tone for Bangladesh's aggressive approach.

Bowling Performance

Bangladesh's bowling was equally impressive in its collective effort. Six different bowlers claimed a wicket each, showcasing tactical flexibility and squad depth as they restricted Papua New Guinea to 138/9 from their 20 overs.

USA Register First Victory Against Namibia

The United States recorded their breakthrough win of the tournament, chasing down Namibia's total with four balls to spare in a four-wicket victory.

Namibia's Innings

After USA won the toss and elected to field, Namibia's Yasmeen Khan produced a stellar batting display. Her knock of 74 runs from 47 balls was the highest individual score of the day and gave Namibia genuine hope of a competitive total. Merczerly Gorases provided useful support with 28 from 34 deliveries as Namibia posted 144 in their 20 overs.

USA's Chase

Ella Claridge rose to the challenge magnificently, answering Khan's innings with an equally impressive 70 runs from 51 balls. When the required rate began to climb, Ritu Singh arrived at the crease and turned the tide with a devastating cameo of 21 runs from just 10 deliveries, allowing USA to close out the chase with relative comfort.

The victory lifted USA to third place in the points table, injecting fresh momentum into their qualifying campaign.

Netherlands Overcome Scotland in Group B Clash

Netherlands claimed top spot in Group B with a hard-fought seven-run victory over Scotland in a match that showcased quality batting from both sides.

Dutch Batting Excellence

Electing to bat first, Netherlands received a brisk start from Heather Siegers (18 off 12 balls) before Kathryn Bryce removed her. The platform was set for Sterre Kalis to produce the innings of the day—a magnificent 87 runs from 60 deliveries that anchored the Dutch innings.

Babette de Leede and Frederique Overdijk provided valuable support in the middle order as Netherlands posted a challenging 157/6.

Scotland's Response

Scotland's chase began poorly with Darcey Carter falling early, but Katherine Fraser and Kathryn Bryce steadied the ship with a determined partnership. Caroline de Lange proved the breakthrough bowler for Netherlands, dismissing both set batters to swing momentum back in favor of the Dutch.

Sarah Bryce kept Scottish hopes alive before Silver Siegers removed her at a crucial juncture. Netherlands maintained their composure to close out a five-run victory and secure pole position in Group B.

Points Table Impact

After Day 2, Thailand and Bangladesh remain unbeaten and firmly in control of their qualifying destiny. Netherlands lead Group B, while USA's first win keeps their campaign alive with crucial matches still to come.

Looking Ahead

Day 3 promises more high-stakes cricket as teams jostle for position in the qualifying race. With the stakes only increasing, expect more drama, individual brilliance, and team performances that could define World Cup dreams.

The Global Qualifier continues to showcase the growing depth and quality of women's cricket worldwide, with every match carrying significant implications for the road to the Women's T20 World Cup 2026.