Thailand edge Hong Kong in tense Asia Cup opener

Thailand launched their Women’s Asia Cup campaign with a narrow six‑run win over Hong Kong in Dubai, extending their perfect record in the matchup to eight games. Batting first, captain Naruemol Chaiwai anchored the innings with 43 off 31, but a late collapse saw Thailand lose seven wickets for 20 runs, finishing on 120/9. Marina Lamplough starred for Hong Kong, taking 4/11 before adding a brisk 22 in the chase. Kary Chan’s 28 off 20 provided early momentum, while Yasmin Daswani contributed another 28, though her slower tempo left Hong Kong behind the rate.

Lamplough’s burst lifted the chase to 84/4, leaving 37 needed from 27 balls. Thailand’s bowlers then tightened control, restricting Hong Kong to 114/7 despite a final‑over equation of just 15 runs. Thipatcha Putthawong conceded eight and claimed a wicket in the last over, sealing a composed and hard‑fought win for Thailand.