By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Apr 10, 2025 05:39 AM • 98 views
Kathmandu — Nepal continued their momentum in the ongoing four-nation Twenty20 International series, registering a convincing six-wicket victory over Kuwait on Thursday at the Mission Road Ground in Hong Kong.
Chasing a competitive target of 186, Nepal made light work of the total, reaching 187 for 4 in 18.5 overs to notch their second win in as many matches as possible. The result puts Nepal atop the points table with four points from two games following their opening victory over Qatar.
Openers Kushal Bhurtel and Asif Sheikh laid the foundation for the successful chase with a commanding 127-run stand. Bhurtel led the charge with a fluent 80 off 50 deliveries, hammering six fours and a six, while Sheikh anchored the innings with a composed 53 from 38 balls, featuring four sixes and two boundaries. Dipendra Singh Airee provided the finishing touches with a quick 31.
Kuwait's bowlers struggled to contain the Nepali top order. Yasin Patel claimed two wickets, while Mohammad Shafiq and skipper Mohammad Aslam each picked up one.
Earlier, Kuwait posted a competitive 185 for 7 after being sent into bat. Clint Anto top-scored with a brisk 41, followed by handy contributions from Meet Bhavsar (35), Bilal Tahir (32), and Ravija Sandaruwan (26). Anto and Bhavsar added 54 runs for the second wicket to steady the innings after an early loss.
Nepal's bowlers made a collective effort, led by veteran pacer Sompal Kami, who claimed 3 for 34. Youngster Nandan Yadav impressed with 2 wickets, while Lalit Rajbanshi and Bhurtel chipped in with a wicket each.
Nepal will look to maintain its unbeaten run when it faces hosts Hong Kong in its next group match. A place in the final is well within reach.
