Kathmandu, Oct. 2 -- Malaysia Women defeated Nepal Women by three runs in a low-scoring thriller at the Bayuemas Oval on Thursday, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series.

Electing to bat first, Malaysia posted 104 for five in 20 overs. Opener Ainna Hamizah Hashim made 26 off 42 balls, while captain Winifred Duraisingam added 27 from 41. The innings gained late momentum from Mas Elysa, who struck 25 off 18 deliveries. Nepal's bowlers kept the run rate in check, with Somu Bist claiming two wickets for 21 and Rubina Chhetry taking one.

Chasing 105, Nepal made a steady start through Samjhana Khadka's 18, but the middle order collapsed against Malaysia's disciplined bowling. Puja Mahato top-scored with 30 from 29 balls, while captai...