KUALA LUMPUR: Hosts Malaysia claimed a narrow 3-run victory over Nepal in the first match of the Women’s T20 International series at Bayumas Ground on Thursday.

With the win, Malaysia have taken a 1–0 lead in the five-match series.

Batting first after winning the toss, Malaysia posted 105 runs for the loss of five wickets in 20 overs.

Skipper Winifred Duraisingam anchored the innings with 26 runs off 41 balls, while openers Ainna Hamiza Hashim (26) and Mas Elysa (25) chipped in crucial runs.

In reply, Nepal fell short despite a fighting knock from Puja Mahato, who top-scored with 30 runs from 29 balls.

Samjhana Khadka added 18 runs off 16 deliveries, but the side could manage only 101 runs, losing seven wickets by the end of their innings.

Malaysia’s Nur Dania was the pick of the bowlers, grabbing three wickets to restrict Nepal’s chase.

For Nepal, Suman Bista impressed with the ball, taking two wickets for 21 runs in her four-over spell, including a maiden.

Former captain Rubina Chhetri also picked up a wicket.

Nepal are on tour in Malaysia as preparation for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

The second T20I will be played on Saturday.