Thailand couldn’t have asked for a better start to the Global Qualifier for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. They currently sit comfortably on top of Group B with a dominant 8-wicket win over hosts Nepal with a strong NRR of +1.326. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe finds itself in a bit of a hole. Despite a heroic five-wicket haul from Christabel Chatonzwa, they fell short by 22 runs against Holland. They are currently third in the group with 0 points and an NRR of -1,100, making this upcoming clash against the group leaders vital to staying in the hunt for the Super Six.
Squads:
Zimbabwe women’s cricket team
Adel Zimunu, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Nyasha Gwanzura, Runyararo Pasipanodya, Beloved Biza, Christabel Chatonzwa, Josephine Nkomo, Kelis Ndhlovu, Chiedza Dhururu, Modester Mupachikwa, Francisca Chipare, Kudzai Chigora, Lindokuhle Mabhero, Loreen Tshuma, Nomvelo Sibanda
Thailand women’s cricket team
Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, Nannaphat Chaihan, Naruemol Chaiwai, Natthakan Chantham, Rosenan Kanoh, Chanida Sutthiruang, Nattaya Boochatham, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Suwanan Khiaoto, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Phannita Maya, Suleeporn Laomi, Thipatcha Putthawong
Players to watch out for:
Nyasha Gwanzura
Nyasha provided a spark of energy for Zimbabwe, contributing 27 quick runs during her time at the crease. He showed an aggressive approach, hitting three boundaries and sixes to finish with an impressive strike rate of 168.75. Even in a low-scoring game, his ability to find the boundary was a clear highlight for his team.
Christabel Chatonzwa
Christabel put in a spectacular performance with the ball, rampaging through the opposition to claim 5 wickets for just 22 runs. His spell was the highlight of the match as he made life difficult for every batsman he faced and eventually took a five-wicket haul. With an economy of 5.50, it was both restrictive and incredibly lethal.
Natthakan Chantham
Natthakan played a crucial and unbeaten role in Thailand’s successful chase, scoring 57 runs off just 39 balls. He looked in complete control, smashing nine fours and a six to ensure his team reached the target with plenty of time to spare. Her strike rate of 146.15 highlights how dangerous she can be when she sets up.
Thipatcha Putthawong
Thipatcha was instrumental in restricting the opposition, returning clinical figures of 4/27 in his four overs. He bowled with great control, never allowing the batsmen to settle down and finishing the day with a solid economy of 6.75. This four-wicket haul firmly establishes her as a key weapon for Thailand in these conditions.
Passed:
Mulpani Cricket Ground offers a balanced grass pitch with real bounce and pace, favoring seamers early on before spin takes over later. T20 records from 13 matches show an average first innings score of 151, with teams bowling first winning 8. Fast outfields and boundaries of 60 to 70 m encourage attacking cricket.
Climate:
The weather will be very similar, with sunny skies throughout the day. The maximum temperature will be 19°C and will drop to 5°C in the evening. Humidity will be around 50% with a gentle 6 mph breeze coming from the west, creating excellent playing conditions.
Fantasy playing XI:
Nannaphat Chaihan, Natthakan Chantham, Nattaya Boochatham, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Thipatcha Putthawong, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Nyasha Gwanzura, Christabel Chatonzwa, Chiedza Dhururu, Loreen Tshuma, Nomvelo Sibanda
Match details:
Date – January 20, 2025
Time – 8:45 a.m. Eastern Time
Event – Mulpani Cricket Ground, Nepal
Transmission – The game will be streamed live via the FanCode app and website.
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