In a thrilling turn at the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Kathmandu, Bangladesh and Netherlands have secured their spots in the 2026 edition to be held in England. The super six stage delivered high-stakes drama, with Bangladesh extending their remarkable streak and Netherlands making history with their debut qualification.
Bangladesh, a consistent participant since 2014, notched up their seventh consecutive appearance by defeating Thailand by 39 runs. At Mulapani Cricket Ground, they recovered from an early 12/2 to post 165/9, powered by a sensational 100-plus run partnership between Juiyera Fardous (56 off 45) and Sobhana Mostari (59 off 42). Thailand crumbled to 126/8, with Marufa Akhtar’s 3-25 proving decisive after early blows like Suwannin Kiao-oto’s first-ball duck.
Meanwhile, Netherlands scripted a historic win over USA via DLS method, chasing down a revised target after rain interrupted play. USA managed 129/7 with Gargi Bhogle (36) and Isani Vaghela (32*) contributing, but Hannah Landheer’s 3-30 kept them in check. In reply, Phoebe Molkenboer’s unbeaten 46 off 43 and Heather Siegers’ explosive 28 off 12, including three sixes, propelled Netherlands to 90/2 in 12 overs, sealing a 21-run victory.
Scotland also shone, thrashing Ireland by 39 runs at Tribhuvan University Ground. Batting first, they reached 160/5 led by Sarah Bryce (47), Kathryn Fraser (36), and Kathryn Bryce (30). Ireland’s chase faltered against Bryce’s 4-21, including a golden duck for opener Christina Coulter-Rally. Despite Gaby Lewis’s 41, they were all out for 121, with Priyanaz Chatterji and Abtaha Mehmood claiming two wickets each.
These results highlight the growing depth in women’s cricket, setting the stage for an exciting 2026 World Cup in England.