Thailand beat Scotland to win the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2025

Thailand created history in Bangkok, lifting the maiden ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy after a tense three-wicket win over Scotland in the virtual final. In a fiercely competitive 10-team tournament, four sides - Thailand, Scotland, Netherlands and UAE - finished with five wins each, but the hosts triumphed thanks to their superior net run rate after a composed, disciplined campaign.

Putthawong’s brilliance and Chaiwai’s calm seal Thailand’s historic win

The final day began with high stakes as Scotland, who had dominated large parts of the tournament, elected to bat first against Thailand. Their decision quickly backfired. Thailand’s young left-arm spinner Thipatcha Putthawong, opening the bowling, produced a sensational spell of 4/17. Alongside her, leg-spinner Suleeporn Laomi tightened the screws with 3/11. The Scottish innings never recovered, folding for just 63 in 15.1 overs, with no batter reaching double figures.

Despite the modest chase, Scotland fought back brilliantly. Teenager Olivia Bell delivered a stunning spell of 5/8, reducing Thailand to 34/5 and momentarily flipping the game on its head. But Thai skipper Naruemol Chaiwai stood firm amidst the chaos. Her calm and crucial 17 off 21* anchored the innings, guiding Thailand inch by inch towards the historic win. With nerves running high, Onnicha Kamchomphu sealed the victory in style, launching a six to take Thailand to 65/7 in 11.4 overs, sparking celebrations across the home crowd.

ALSO SEE: Watch: Dewald Brevis' one-handed splendid catch dismisses Ruturaj Gaikwad during IND vs SA 1st ODI

Hosts shine brightest as emerging nations deliver a thrilling first edition

Earlier in the day, Netherlands capped off their campaign with a strong win over Uganda, while UAE stayed in contention with an emphatic victory over Namibia, driven by a superb 114-run opening stand between Esha Oza and Theertha Satish. Papua New Guinea also ended on a high, beating Tanzania by 20 runs.

Watch the video:

Thailand’s triumph was built on consistency, composure and breakout performances. Putthawong finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets, while Natthakan Chantham and Chaiwai played decisive roles with the bat. The inaugural edition showcased competitive cricket, emerging talent and dramatic finishes, and fittingly, it ended with the hosts scripting an unforgettable chapter in their cricketing journey.