Nepal has lost to Bangladesh by 5 wickets in the first match of the U-19 T20 Women's World Cup held in Malaysia.
Chasing the 53-run target set by Nepal, Bangladesh reached it in 13.2 overs, losing five wickets.
For the victory of Bangladesh, Sadiya Islam topped the score with 16 runs including 1 four off 24 deliveries followed by captain Sumaiya Akter with 12 runs while Afia Ashima Era contributed 9 runs. Similarly, Jannatul Maoua and Mst Sumaiya Akther Suborna made 5 and 4 runs, respectively.
In reply, Rachana Chaudhary, Riya Sharma, Seemana KC and Puja Mahato grabbed 1 wicket each for Nepal.
Earlier, invited to bat first after losing the toss in Malaysia, Nepal was bowled out for 52 runs in 18.2 overs. Sana Praveen made the highest 19 runs followed by Seemana KC with 10 runs. The other batsmen could not achieve significant runs.
On the bowling side, Jannatul Maoua took the highest 2 wickets followed by Nishita Akter Nishi, Fahomida Choya and Anisa Akter Soba with 1 wicket each for Bangladesh.
Nepal is in Group 'D' alongside Bangladesh, Australia and Scotland. Nepal has to defeat at least one team to reach Super 6.
Three teams from each group will reach Super 6. Super 6 will have two groups. The top two teams from each group will enter the semi-finals. Nepal will play Scotland on January 20 and take on Australia on January 22.
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