The fourth day of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier in Nepal was a defining moment for several nations. As the group stages progressed, the competition intensified with unbeaten runs being tested and underdogs finally finding their footing on the international stage. From Bangladesh’s clinical consistency to the emotional first victories for Papua New Guinea and the host nation, Day 4 offered a compelling narrative of resilience and skill.
Bangladesh Edge Ireland in High-Stakes Thriller
In a clash of the titans, Bangladesh maintained their perfect record by overcoming a spirited Irish side in a match that went down to the wire. Electing to bat first, the Tigresses laid a solid foundation through Dilara Akter and Sharmin Akhter. The duo’s 70-run second-wicket partnership was the backbone of the innings, with Sharmin top-scoring with a composed 52 off 45 balls. A late explosive cameo from Sobhana Mostary, who smashed 30 runs from just 16 deliveries, propelled Bangladesh to a competitive 153 for 7.
Ireland’s response was nothing short of spectacular initially. Openers Gaby Lewis and Amy Hunter looked in total control, racing to 53 before a significant turning point occurred: Hunter was forced to retire hurt on 25. This disruption gave Bangladesh the opening they needed. Shorna Akter turned the tide by removing heavy hitters Orla Prendergast and Leah Paul in a single over. Despite a heroic 73 from Gaby Lewis, the pressure of the mounting required rate and the loss of captain Laura Delaney via run-out proved too much. Even with Hunter bravely returning to the crease, Ireland fell nine runs short, cementing Bangladesh’s position at the top of Group A.
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Scotland Leapfrog Thailand with Clinical Chase
Scotland secured a vital victory in their quest for qualification by defeating Thailand by five wickets. After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, the Scottish attack immediately put Thailand under pressure, reducing them to a precarious position early in the innings. However, Thailand’s captain Naruemol Chaiwai showcased her class, anchoring the innings with a brilliant 73 off 55 balls. Her efforts guided Thailand to a respectable total of 118 for 6.
The Scottish chase faced an early wobble when they lost key wickets, including captain Kathryn Bryce. However, Sarah Bryce and Katherine Fraser combined for a match-defining 67-run partnership. Fraser, contributing a quickfire 41, set the tempo before Sarah Bryce took complete control. Sarah remained unbeaten on 52 from just 35 balls, steering her side to victory with over three overs to spare. This result was particularly significant as it allowed Scotland to leapfrog Thailand in the standings, gaining crucial momentum heading into the business end of the tournament.
Nepal Off the Mark Against Zimbabwe
The home crowd at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground finally had reason to celebrate as Nepal registered their first win of the qualifier against Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe, batting first, struggled against a disciplined Nepalese bowling attack. While Kelis Ndhlovu struck a fine 52, Nepal’s Riya Sharma took crucial wickets at key intervals to restrict the visitors to 129 for 6.
Nepal’s pursuit of the target was led by the talented Puja Mahato. Showing maturity beyond her years, Mahato anchored the chase with craft and patience. She found a steady partner in captain Indu Barma, whose contribution of 22 runs helped keep the scoreboard ticking. Mahato remained unbeaten as Nepal crossed the finish line with six wickets and three balls to spare. This victory not only kept Nepal’s slim hopes alive but also marked a historic moment for the hosts in front of their passionate supporters.
Papua New Guinea Come Up Clutch Against Namibia
The morning session witnessed a nail-biting encounter as Papua New Guinea (PNG) secured their first points of the tournament by defeating Namibia in a last-over thriller. Namibia posted a total of 122 for 5, built largely on Jurriene Diergaardt’s 36. PNG’s Sibona Jimmy was the standout with the ball, her two wickets for 18 runs helping to keep the target within reach.
The PNG chase started at a blistering pace, with Hollan Doriga smashing 39 off 25 balls in an opening stand of 58. However, the Namibian bowlers fought back valiantly, triggering a middle-order collapse that brought the game to a knife-edge. With the pressure mounting in the final over, PNG’s lower order held their nerve to scramble the winning runs with just two balls remaining. The three-wicket win was a testament to PNG’s fighting spirit and sets up a high-stakes encounter against the USA in their next fixture.
Also Read: Beyond the Boundary: Why Nepal’s World Cup Hopes Remain Alive