The pursuit of a spot in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 reached a fever pitch on Day 3 of the Global Qualifier. With high stakes and narrow margins, the day’s action saw heavyweights solidify their dominance while others kept their dreams alive through sheer grit. From a heart-stopping finish at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground to clinical displays of spin and power-hitting, the third day provided a comprehensive look at the talent vying for the global stage.
Netherlands Hold Their Nerve Against Nepal
The most dramatic encounter of the day took place between the Netherlands and the host nation, Nepal. In a match that went down to the very last delivery, the Dutch managed to defend their unbeaten streak, winning by a hair-thin margin of just two runs.
Opting to bat first, the Netherlands posted a competitive total of 140 for 5. Captain Babette de Leede led from the front, anchoring the innings with a composed 49 off 47 balls, while Sterre Kalis provided valuable support with a steady 30. Despite the dismissal of several key batters, the Dutch total felt substantial. However, Nepal’s chase proved that no lead is safe in T20 cricket. At 93 for 7 in the 17th over, the hosts seemed out of the race. A spectacular unbeaten 45-run partnership between Rubina Chhetry and Sita Magar turned the game on its head. Chhetry, who finished with 37 not out, and Magar, with a blistering 27 off 12, brought the equation down to six runs needed off the final ball. Heather Siegers delivered a clutch final delivery, limiting Chhetry to a boundary and securing the win for the Netherlands.
Ireland Strokemakers Overpower Brave USA
Ireland continued their march toward the Super Six stage with a convincing 16-run victory over the United States. Choosing to bat first, the Irish side displayed remarkable depth. Even though their star batter Orla Prendergast fell for a golden duck, the rest of the lineup stepped up. Gaby Lewis provided the early momentum with 42 runs, but the day belonged to Leah Paul. Her aggressive 67 off 52 balls featured eight boundaries and anchored the Irish total of 154 for 7.
The USA’s response was valiant but lacked the sustained partnerships needed to chase down such a target. Chetna Pagydyala gave them a solid start with 22, and Ritu Singh kept the hope alive with a spirited 41 off 30 balls. However, Arlene Kelly’s expert bowling proved too much to handle. Kelly dismantled the USA’s middle and lower order, finishing with career-best figures of 4 for 20. Her two wickets in the final over effectively snuffed out the American challenge, leaving them 16 runs short of the target.
Bangladesh Beat Namibia to Seal Super Six Birth
Bangladesh maintained their clinical form, securing a dominant 80-run victory over Namibia to officially book their spot in the Super Six. The Tigresses showed great tactical discipline, posting 144 for 7 through a collective effort. Sobhana Mostary top-scored with 27, while contributions from Dilara Akter, Nigar Sultana Joty, and Shorna Akter ensured the scoreboard kept moving throughout the 20 overs.
While the batting was solid, it was the Bangladesh bowlers who stole the show. Namibia’s chase never got off the ground as they were bundled out for a mere 64 runs. Shanjida Akther Maghla was the pick of the bowlers, returning incredible figures of 4 for 14. She was ably supported by Rabeya Khan, who took 3 wickets for just 5 runs, and Fahima Khatun, who also claimed three victims. This victory not only confirmed Bangladesh’s progression but also sent a strong message to the rest of the field about their bowling prowess.
Scotland Open Account With Win Over Zimbabwe
Scotland finally found their rhythm on Day 3, securing their first win of the tournament with a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe. The Scottish bowlers set the tone early, utilizing disciplined lines and lengths to restrict Zimbabwe to 101 all out. Modester Mupachikwa remained the lone warrior for Zimbabwe, scoring an unbeaten 30, but she lacked support from the other end.
Scotland’s chase was a lesson in composure. Although Loreen Tshuma threatened a collapse by taking three wickets, Katherine Fraser ensured there would be no upset. Fraser played a fluent and aggressive knock of 44 from 30 balls, while captain Kathryn Bryce added a quick 23. The experienced pair of Megan McColl and Priyanaz Chatterji eventually guided Scotland home with more than six overs to spare. This result breathes new life into Scotland’s campaign, putting them back in contention for a top-two spot in their group.
As the tournament heads toward the business end, Day 3 will be remembered as the point where the contenders began to separate themselves from the pack, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the qualifiers.
Also Read: Bangladesh Reign Supreme as Host Nepal and PNG Secure Historic First Wins