The last women’s Asia Cup in 2018 was the start of Thailand’s record breaking T20I winning run that saw them qualify for the T20 World Cup. This one comes hot on the heels on a disappointing qualifying campaign for the next T20 World Cup.

Thailand are one of three associates in the seven team round-robin event alongside UAE and Malaysia and the four Asian full members that have a women’s team and they kicked off their tournament by taking on hosts Bangladesh today in Sylhet.

Thailand captain Naruemoi Chaiwai chose to bat first after she won the toss, but saw her team get bowled out for just 82. Phannita Maya top scored with 26 with Natthakan Chantham‘s 20 the next highest score. Rumana Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers for the home team, taking 3 wickets for just nine runs.

Bangladesh were largely untroubled in their reply, chasing down their target in just 11.4 overs to win by 9 wickets. Shamima Sultana top scored with 49 from 30 balls before Nigar Sultana hit a six to secure the win.

Thailand have plenty of time to gather themselves before they take on Sri Lanka on Tuesday. UAE and Malaysia will both be in action tomorrow, playing Sri Lanka and Pakistan respectively.