Meghalaya registered an important 19-run victory over Manipur in their second match of the U-23 Women’s T20 Trophy 2025-26 plate group in Agartala on Tuesday. The win comes as a timely boost for the Meghalaya side, which suffered a heavy defeat in their opening game against Pondicherry.
In a rain-affected encounter reduced to nine overs per side, Meghalaya opted for a positive approach after being put in to bat. Suriti Kumari Ray anchored the innings with a crucial unbeaten 33, guiding her team to a competitive total of 69/5. Although wickets fell regularly at the other end, Suriti’s composure ensured that Meghalaya finished strongly in the final overs.
Chasing 70, Manipur struggled to gain momentum against disciplined bowling and sharp fielding from Meghalaya. Niruta top-scored with 11 runs before being dismissed by Nerisa Nongrum, who emerged as one of the key performers with the ball, finishing with figures of 2/21. She also removed Barkatun for 9 to dent Manipur’s chase early.
While the bowlers kept the pressure on, it was Meghalaya’s fielding that defined the match. In a remarkable display, seven of Manipur’s wickets fell to run-outs, reflecting the team’s alertness and athleticism in the field. Indariakor Kharwanniang alone executed three run-outs, while Ritreki Pohshna, Janika Marak, Abiezer Kharsyiem and Suriti contributed one each.
Manipur were eventually bowled out for 50 in 8.5 overs, falling short of the target in their pursuit of quick runs.
With this win, Meghalaya have regained confidence and will look to build further momentum when they face Arunachal Pradesh in their next match on Thursday.
