KUALA LUMPUR: Nepal’s journey in the ACC Women’s T20I Premier Cup came to a disappointing end on Wednesday after a comprehensive 56-run defeat to Thailand in the first quarter-final at the Bayuemas Oval.

Chasing a target of 131 runs, the Nepali batting lineup collapsed under immense pressure from the Thai bowling attack, managing just 74 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

Nepal’s chase never found its rhythm, starting with the early dismissal of opener Rubi Poddar for a duck in the second over. Fellow opener Samjhana Khadka struck a quick 12 off 11 balls before falling to Phannita Maya, leaving Nepal at 12 runs at the loss of two wickets in 2.4 overs.

A disciplined and clinical spell from Thailand’s spin attack completely choked the run flow, causing a middle-order collapse that saw Nepal reduced to a dismal 39 runs at the loss of six wickets by the 13th over.

Sony Pakhrin showed some brief resistance with 15 off 21 balls, but heavy hitters like skipper Indu Barma (7) and Puja Mahato (2) failed to convert.

Veteran all-rounder Rubina Chhetry top-scored for Nepal with an unbeaten 20 off 23 balls, partnering with Sita Rana Magar (12 not out) to see out the remaining overs, but the climbing required run rate had already put the game well out of reach.

Thailand’s bowling was led superbly by Thipatcha Putthawong, who registered incredible figures of 2 for 7 in her 4 overs.

Sunida Chaturongrattana (2/13) and Suleeporn Laomi (2/14) tore through the core of Nepal’s batting order, maintaining an economy rate well under 4 runs per over.

Earlier in the morning, Thailand set a competitive total of 130/4 in their 20 overs, laid down by a solid foundation that their bowlers successfully defended to march into the semi-finals.