ZIMBABWE Women suffered a crushing 1-run defeat to Thailand Women yesterday in their second match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier.
In a game that went down to the final delivery, a last-ball run-out sealed the Lady Chevrons’ fate, leaving their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance.
Thailand posted a competitive 115/7, anchored by a disciplined half-century from Nannapat Koncharoenkai (54 off 52 balls).
Zimbabwe’s bowlers kept the pressure on for most of the innings, but Thailand’s late-order resilience proved vital.
In reply, Zimbabwe appeared to be in control before a tense final over shifted the momentum.
With two runs needed off the final ball, bowler Phannita Maya showed nerves of steel.
The ball was struck straight back to her, and she executed a clinical run-out to end the innings at 114/8.
Maya was supported by Thipatcha Putthawong, whose 2/27 kept Zimbabwe’s middle order in check.
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The second day of the Global Qualifier was defined by narrow margins and dominant displays from group leaders.
Bangladesh maintained their perfect record with a 30-run victory over Papua New Guinea, where Shorna Akter was the standout, smashing 37 off just 14 balls to propel her side to 168/5.
The USA secured their first win of the tournament by chasing down 144 against Namibia.
Despite a brilliant 74 from Namibia’s Yasmeen Khan, USA’s Ella Claridge matched the effort with a match-winning 70 to secure the points.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands moved to the top of Group B after a 7-run victory over Scotland, powered by Sterre Kalis who played the innings of the day, scoring 87 off 60 balls.
Zimbabwe entered this Global Qualifier as one of the favourites from the African region, having dominated regional competition to earn their spot in Nepal.
Historically, the Lady Chevrons have been on the cusp of World Cup qualification multiple times, but have often struggled to clear the final hurdle.
This loss to Thailand is a significant blow to their momentum, especially as Thailand and the Netherlands remain unbeaten in the hunt for the top spots.
The path forward is now a “do-or-die” scenario.
To progress to the semi-finals and keep their dream of reaching the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup alive, Zimbabwe must defeat Scotland tomorrow.
A loss would result in an early exit from the tournament, making the upcoming clash the most pivotal match of their campaign.
