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The ninth edition of the Women’s Asia Cup kicks off today in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, with an exciting opening encounter between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Nepal.
While the big guns like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka might grab most of the headlines, this match presents a golden opportunity for the underdogs to make their mark on the tournament.
UAE Women
The UAE team enters the Asia Cup buoyed by their performance in the recent ACC Women’s Premier League. Openers Esha Oza and Kavisha Edogage were rock-solid, providing a solid foundation for the batting order. While the middle order faltered at times, players like Theertha Sathish and Khushi Sharma will be aiming to convert their starts into big scores.
The bowling attack, spearheaded by the wicket-taking duo of Chaya Hotchandani and Vaishnavi Mahesh, also impressed in the ACC tournament. Edogage and Kotti offer support with their skills, while part-timers like Dharnidharka and Mehak Thakur can chip in with crucial wickets.
United Arab Emirates Women Squad: Esha Rohit Oza (c), Theertha Satish (wk), Khushi Sharma, Kavisha Egodage, Heena Hotchandani, Rinitha Rajith, Samaira Dharnidharka, Vaishnave Mahesh, Lavanya Keny, Indhuja Nandakumar, Mehak Thakur, Emily Thomas, Rishitha Rajith, Rithika Rajith, Suraksha Kotte
Nepal Women
Nepal, known for their spirited performances, will be hoping to pull off an upset against the UAE. Their batting revolves around the experience of Kabita Kunwar and Sita Rana at the top, with skipper Indu Barma adding stability at number three. Rubina Chhetry, Dolly Bhatta, and Kabita Joshi will shoulder the responsibility of scoring quick runs in the middle overs.
The bowling attack is their biggest strength. The pace trio of Rubina Chhetry, Sita Rana, and Kabita Kunwar will look to exploit the Dambulla pitch, while spinners like Kabita Joshi, Sangita Rai, and Indu Barma are likely to play a crucial role in restricting the flow of runs.
Nepal Women Squad: Indu Barma (c), Kajal Shrestha (wk), Kabita Kunwar, Sita Rana Magar, Rubina Chhetry, Dolly Bhatta, Kabita Joshi, Bindu Rawal, Roma Thapa, Mamta Chaudhary, Sabnam Rai, Samjhana Khadka, Kritika Marasini, Puja Mahato, Rajmati Airee
Pitch and Weather Conditions:
The Dambulla pitch is expected to be a slow turner with variable bounce, favoring the spinners. While batting first might seem tempting, the captains might decide to bowl first to test the pitch and adapt their strategies accordingly.
Match Prediction
While the UAE might appear to have the edge with their consistent batting and potent bowling attack, Nepal should not be taken lightly. Their fighting spirit and experience in bowling on turning pitches can cause an upset. This match promises to be a close contest, setting the tone for an exciting Women’s Asia Cup.
Winner: UAE Women Will Win
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