Kuala Lumpur: Nepal made a triumphant start in the ongoing ICC Women's T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier, securing a hard-fought victory against Malaysia with a margin of five runs.

Electing to bat after losing the toss at the Bayuemas Oval Cricket Ground in Kuala Lumpur, Nepal set a target of 85 runs for the host team.

Nepal managed to score a total of 84 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Sita Rana Magar showcased her resilience with an unbeaten score of 38 runs off 54 balls, including one four. Apsari Begam contributed 17 runs, while Captain Rubina Chhetry Belbase added 12. The collective effort of these players was pivotal in Nepal's run tally, with no other players making significant contributions.

In response, Malaysia struggled to reach the target, concluding their innings at 79 runs for the loss of nine wickets in 20 overs. Captain Winifred Duraisingam led the Malaysian side with 28 runs, accompanied by Ainna Hamizah's 14 and Mas Elysa's 10.

In the bowling department, Ainna Hamizah proved her prowess, claiming two wickets. Mahirah Izzati Ismail, Aisya Eleesa, and Nik Nur Atilea each secured one wicket for the team.

Nepal finds itself in Group 'A' alongside Malaysia, Bahrain, Bhutan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates in the tournament. Meanwhile, Group 'B' consists of China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Kuwait, and Myanmar. The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, with the ultimate goal of securing a spot in the Global T-20 Qualifier slated for 2024.

The Nepali squad, led by Captain Rubina Chhetry Belbase, includes players such as Samjhana Khadka, Kajol Shrestha, Apsari Begam, Sita Rana Magar, Indu Barma, Kabita Kunwar, Kabita Joshi, Puja Mahato, Ashmina Karmacharya, and Khusi Dangol.

Nepal is set to face Bahrain in their upcoming match on the following day.