Lotus Cup 2026
Natasha Tara Miles Scripts History as Hong Kong, China Beat Malaysia by 51 Runs in Lotus Cup Women’s T20I Tri-Series
It was a day to remember at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground as Hong Kong, China produced a commanding performance to defeat Malaysia by 51 runs in the second match of the Lotus Cup Women’s T20I Tri-Series. But the headlines were all about one woman — captain Natasha Tara Miles, whose maiden T20 international century lit up the ground and left fans in awe.
Hong Kong, China elected to bat first and immediately set the tone for the match. Natasha Tara Miles was in sublime form, pacing her innings perfectly, hitting 100 off 70 balls*, including 12 elegant fours and 3 towering sixes. She anchored the innings while Mariko Hill provided solid support with a measured 26 off 27 balls, ensuring Hong Kong never lost momentum.
The middle overs saw Hong Kong accelerate, with Yasmin Daswani chipping in a quick 21, while Natasha continued to dominate. Chan Ka Ying (4 off 4) and Maryam Bibi (2* off 2) ensured the innings finished strongly at 163/3 in 20 overs. The target of 164 was imposing, and Malaysia would need a near-perfect chase to pull off an upset.
Malaysia, chasing back-to-back games in the tri-series, started positively. Ainna Hamizah Hashim top-scored with 31, looking determined against a disciplined Hong Kong bowling attack. Nur Dania Syuhada Abedul Samad also provided resistance with 26 runs, but wickets fell at crucial moments.
Hong Kong’s bowlers were clinical. Ruchitha Venkatesh took 3 wickets for just 18 runs, Siu Mei Wai grabbed 2, and Iqra Sahar chipped in with 2 more. Tight lines, clever field placements, and pressure on every ball ensured Malaysia never got settled. Despite a few late cameo hits, Malaysia could only manage 112/9 in their 20 overs, falling short by 51 runs.
Natasha Tara Miles’ century was historic in more ways than one. She became the first Hong Kong woman to score a T20 century on Bhutan soil and only the second Hong Kong player overall to reach three figures in T20 internationals. Her innings was a breathtaking mix of timing, power, and composure — a knock that will be remembered for years.
“This is a special moment, not just for me, but for women’s cricket in Hong Kong and the region,” Natasha said after the match. “The team played brilliantly, and I’m proud to lead them. It’s incredible to achieve this milestone here in Bhutan, where cricket is growing so fast.”
Hong Kong, China’s victory sends a clear signal to their competitors: they are a team to watch in this tournament. With a perfect blend of experienced campaigners and young talent, they are showing that they can rise to the occasion when it matters most.
The Lotus Cup Women’s T20I Tri-Series continues to deliver thrilling cricket, and after today, all eyes will be on Natasha Tara Miles and her record-breaking team as they chase more victories and rewrite history on Bhutanese soil.
Pure class, pure history — Natasha Tara Miles has made Gelephu a landmark in her cricketing journey.
