In a thrilling day of cricket at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier in Kathmandu, Bangladesh and the Netherlands secured their places in the prestigious tournament, booking two of the four available spots as the Super Six stage commenced on Wednesday. The Netherlands achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for their first-ever T20 World Cup, while Bangladesh continued their consistent run with a seventh consecutive appearance.
Historic Qualification for the Netherlands
The Netherlands created history by defeating the USA by 21 runs via the DLS method, a victory powered by aggressive batting that confirmed their spot in the Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, 2026. After winning the toss, the USA posted a competitive total of 129 for seven in their 20 overs, with Gargi Bhogle scoring 36 and Isani Vaghela remaining unbeaten on 32. However, the innings faltered after Bhogle's dismissal at 71 for three, as Hannah Landheer's impressive bowling figures of three for 30 restricted the USA's momentum.
In response, the Netherlands launched a blistering chase, with Heather Siegers smashing three sixes in her quickfire 28 off just 12 balls. Opener Phebe Molkenboer anchored the innings with an unbeaten 46 from 43 deliveries, maintaining the required run rate. Rain interrupted the match early, but the Netherlands had already reached 90 for two in 12 overs, securing a decisive win under the DLS method and marking a landmark achievement for Dutch women's cricket.
Bangladesh's Commanding Victory Over Thailand
Bangladesh demonstrated their experience and skill with a 39-run victory over Thailand, ensuring their qualification for a seventh successive T20 World Cup. After being put into bat, Bangladesh recovered from an early stumble at 12 for two, thanks to a magnificent century partnership between opener Juairiya Ferdous and Sobhana Mostary. Juairiya scored a fluent 56 off 45 balls, hitting three fours and four sixes, while Sobhana top-scored with a brilliant 59 from 42 deliveries, including nine boundaries.
Despite a late wobble in the lower order, Bangladesh set a challenging target of 166 for Thailand. The Thai chase got off to a disastrous start when Suwanan Khiaoto was bowled first ball by Marufa Akter. Natthakan Chantham fought valiantly with 46, adding 67 runs for the second wicket with Nannapat Koncharoenkai (29), but the total proved too steep, and Bangladesh clinched the win comfortably.
Other Key Matches in the Qualifier
In another significant match of the day, Scotland defeated Ireland by 39 runs, with Kathryn Bryce delivering an all-round performance to guide her team to victory. This result adds to the competitive spirit of the qualifier, as teams vie for the remaining spots in the World Cup. The Super Six stage continues to showcase high-quality cricket, with nations battling for a chance to compete on the global stage in 2026.
The qualification of Bangladesh and the Netherlands highlights the growing depth and competitiveness in women's T20 cricket, setting the stage for an exciting World Cup in England and Wales. Fans can look forward to more action as the qualifier progresses, with other teams aiming to join these qualifiers in securing their berths for the tournament.
