Lotus Cup 2026
Bhutan Register Comfortable 8 Wicket Win Over Malaysia : Lotus Cup
Bhutan delivered a composed and mature all round performance to defeat Malaysia by 8 wickets, chasing down a target of 114 with nine balls to spare, extending their dominance with two consecutive victories over Malaysia in this series.
Batting first, Malaysia posted 113 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Ainna Hamizah Hashim, who top scored with a patient 34 off 38 balls, while Mas Elysa Yasmin Zulkifli added intent with a fluent 37 off 32. Malaysia adopted a calculated approach, focusing on strike rotation and selective acceleration, but found it difficult to break free in the closing overs as Bhutan’s bowlers maintained tight lines and disciplined lengths.
Bhutan’s fielding also played a key role, with sharp work in the inner circle and crucial run outs ensuring Malaysia were kept to a manageable total. At the halfway mark, the target appeared defendable in a low scoring T20 contest where margins were always going to be fine.
In reply, Bhutan were led by a commanding unbeaten innings from Ngawang Choden, who anchored the chase with a match defining 78 off 71 balls, striking 12 fours and 2 sixes. After the early loss of two wickets, Bhutan found themselves needing stability, and Ngawang provided exactly that, absorbing pressure while steadily shifting momentum.
The turning point came when Ngawang launched two towering sixes, a moment that decisively altered the rhythm of the match and shifted momentum firmly in Bhutan’s favour.
She found valuable support from Tshering Zangmo, who remained unbeaten on 14 off 16 balls, as the pair ensured there were no further setbacks. Malaysia continued to fight, with Arianna Natasya Benn Rakquidean delivering the standout bowling performance with figures of 2 for 17, but the target ultimately proved insufficient.
Bhutan reached 114 for 2 in 18.3 overs, sealing a confident 8 wicket victory built on calm execution, game awareness, and composure under pressure. While Malaysia showed structure and intent, this result marked their second consecutive defeat against Bhutan in the series, with brief lapses at critical moments proving costly.
Malaysia may have set the tempo, but Bhutan changed the rhythm. A well paced chase, fearless intent at the right moment, and clear thinking in key phases ensured a memorable and well deserved win.