Thailand finally met their match in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Scotalnd as they were beaten by 70 runs in the final by a very impressive Bangladesh team who added victory in this competition to their Women’s Asia Cup trophy.
Thailand were outplayed from the start after Bangladesh had chosen to bat first and for once the amazing swing bowling of Chanida Sutthiruang had not brought early wickets. Bangladesh’s openers shared a stand of 68 and Sanjida Islam went on to score an unbeaten 71. Bangladesh scored 130 for 5 in their 20 overs but even the mighty Bangladeshis were made to treat the leg-spin of Suleeporn Laomi with great respect as she bowled her four overs for 13 and claimed the first wicket.
Thailand had lost twice to Bangladesh at the end of their stay in Netherlands when they had struggled to raise their run-rate above four runs an over so the target always seemed out of reach. Thailand ended on 60 for 7 as none of the top order could make a substantial contribution but at least Ratanaporn Padunglerd hit a four and a six towards the end to raise Thai spirits.
The presentation was a memorable occasion as Bangladesh were awarded their winners’ trophy and Thailand were given their runners up awards. Chanida Sutthiruang more than made up for today’s disappointment by being named player of the tournament after taking 12 wickets for 68. The two teams posed for photos together and danced around happily to end a memorable tournament.
Thailand’s cricketing girls have made the headlines all over the world by qualifying for their first ever World Cup but they have been reminded today of what lies ahead in Australia next year. By finishing as runners up Thailand are now drawn in Group B of the T20 Women’s World Cup and will face contests against England, South Africa, West Indies and Pakistan. They will also play warm up matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand as they travel across Australia on what will surely be the trip of a lifetime.
