Cricket

Bhutan Defend Modest Total to Overcome Myanmar in Qualifier Opener

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 5, 2026, 10:38 IST

Bhutan secured a 27-run victory over Myanmar in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia Sub Regional Qualifier A, successfully defending a total of 119 at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur.

Bhutan Defend Modest Total to Overcome Myanmar in Qualifier Opener

Bhutan Set Target After Early Struggle

Bhutan opened their campaign in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia Sub Regional Qualifier A with a hard-fought 27-run victory over Myanmar at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Bhutan found themselves in a challenging position, eventually posting a total of 119/8 from their allotted 20 overs.

The innings was anchored by Thinley Jamtsho, who provided the necessary momentum with a brisk 40 off 27 balls. Namgang Chejay offered valuable support, contributing 22 runs from 26 deliveries to help stabilise the innings. Despite their efforts, Myanmar’s bowling attack remained disciplined, led by an impressive spell from Paing Danu, who finished with figures of 3/23 from his four overs to restrict Bhutan to a modest score.

Myanmar Chase Falters Under Pressure

Chasing 120 for victory, Myanmar struggled to find rhythm against a determined Bhutanese bowling unit. The chase suffered an immediate setback as Bhutan claimed two early wickets, putting the pressure firmly on the middle order. The turning point of the match arrived in the fourth over when Paing Danu, who had been the standout performer with the ball earlier in the day, fell for 16 off 19 balls with the team score at just 23.

Following Danu’s departure, Myanmar’s batting lineup failed to build any significant partnerships. Htet Lin Oo attempted to steady the ship, but the required run rate proved too steep as the innings progressed. Gakul Ghalley played a key role in maintaining the pressure, ensuring that Myanmar could never accelerate towards the target. Ultimately, Myanmar finished on 92/9, falling well short of the victory target. The win marks a positive start for Bhutan in the qualifier series, showcasing their ability to defend a low total through disciplined bowling and fielding.