Nagaland top Group A, enter semis with win over Manipur

DIMAPUR — Nagaland sealed their place in the semi-finals of the NECDC U-23 Women’s Interstate Tournament 2026, finishing as Group A table toppers with a four-wicket win over Manipur in a low-scoring contest at Rangpo, Sikkim, on Wednesday.

Opting to field first, Nagaland produced a disciplined bowling performance to bundle out Manipur for just 37 in 16.3 overs. Niruka Laishram (6) and Lourembam Prena (6) were the joint top scorers in an otherwise dismal batting display.

Roma Subha led the charge for Nagaland with an impressive spell of 3/5 in 2.3 overs, keeping the pressure on throughout and dismantling the Manipur batting line-up.

Also read: NECDC friendship cup: Meghalaya edge Nagaland in thriller; Sikkim cruise into semis

In reply, Nagaland chased down the modest target with some hiccups, reaching 38/6 in 11.2 overs. Bipila remained unbeaten on 12 off 12 balls to guide her side home in a tense finish.

Manipur’s Thoudam Mangalsana kept the contest alive with a fine spell of 4/14 in four overs, picking up key wickets during the chase. Roma Subha was named Player of the Match for her match-winning bowling performance.

With this victory, Nagaland advance to the semi-finals as Group A toppers and will take on Meghalaya on April 9.