Thailand’s comprehensive victory over USA keeps them in contention for Group A semi-final

For the second, consecutive match, Thailand’s bowlers proved their captain’s decision to bowl first, right. USA’s batters remained on the back foot through out their innings. The start was disastrous, seeing opener, Disha Dhingra bowled for a first ball duck by Chanida Sutthiruang. None of the top, middle or lower order batters made an impression as Thailand bowlers made regular inroads.

 (Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

USA had crashed to 36 for nine in 10.5 overs when Saanvi Immadi joined Isani Vaghela. The two absorbed the pressure in the initial stages of their partnership, with Immadi blocking her end with three off 25. She eventually fell to Suleeporn Laomi. Before her dismissal, Immadi helped Vaghela take the team past the 50-run mark. The 18-run, final-wicket stand was the best partnership of the innings. Vaghela top-scored for her side with 15 not out.

Left-arm spinner and Player of the Match, Thipatcha Putthawong, was the pick of the bowlers for Thailand with four wickets for 12 runs in four overs. Onnicha Kamchomphu and Chanida Sutthiruang took two wickets apiece.

In reply, Thailand lost opener Nattaya Boochatham to the first ball of the innings, Geetika Kodali going through her defences. Wicketkeeper-batter, Nannapat Koncharoenkai and captain Naruemol Chaiwai then batted with renewed focus and responsibility, ensuring that their team reached its target without any further damage.

Koncharoenkai hit five fours in her undefeated 26-ball 31. Chaiwai provided a steady hand, scoring 19 from 30 balls (two fours). Thailand chased down the target in 9.2 overs.

Scores in brief:

Match 16:

Thailand beat USA by nine wickets

USA  54 all out, 17.5 overs (Isani Vaghela 15 not out, Pooja Ganesh 13; Thipatcha Putthawong 4-12, Onnicha Kamchomphu 2-4, Chanida Sutthiruang 2-15)

Thailand 56 for 1, 9.2 overs (Nannapat Koncharoenkai 31 not out, Naruemol Chaiwai 19 not out; Geetika Kodali 1-13)

Player of the Match – Thipatcha Putthawong