By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Jul 03, 2025 11:40 AM • 55 views
Selangor, Malaysia — In a dominant display of youth cricketing prowess, defending champions Nepal cruised into the final of the ACC Men's U-16 East Zone Cup with a commanding 9-wicket demolition of hosts Malaysia on Thursday. The first semifinal, held at the Selangor Turf Club Ground, saw Malaysia bundled out for just 90 runs in 43.1 overs — a target Nepal made a mockery of, chasing it down in just 11.4 overs with nine wickets to spare. Leading Nepal's charge was Parimarjan Yadav, whose unbeaten 59 off 35 balls was nothing short of a batting masterclass. Yadav tore into the Malaysian bowling attack, smashing five boundaries and six maximums, showcasing the kind of temperament and flair that has earmarked him as a future star. Alongside him, Shivans Bajgain provided solid support with an unbeaten *23, ensuring Nepal crossed the finish line without further damage after the early loss of opener Rajan Patel. The lone Malaysian breakthrough came via Nagineshwaran Satnakumaran, but by then, the tide was already firmly against the hosts.
Earlier, after electing to bat first following Nepal's toss defeat, Malaysia never found any rhythm. Mohammad Fathul Muin (38) and Captain Diaz Petro (10) were the only batters to enter double digits in what was otherwise a disastrous outing with the bat. The rest of the lineup fell like dominoes against a relentless Nepali bowling unit.
Abhay Yadav starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 4 wickets, while Shubham Khanal picked up 3, and Sachin Bhatt and skipper Bipin Prasad Sharma claimed a wicket apiece, expertly exploiting the conditions to keep Malaysia under constant pressure.
Nepal's performance was a clear statement of intent. Having topped Group A, they came into the knockout stage brimming with confidence — and it showed in every department: ruthless bowling, sharp fielding, and fearless batting.
With this win, Nepal not only sealed their place in the tournament's final but also reaffirmed their status as the most dominant force in youth cricket across the East Zone.
As they await the winner of the second semifinal, Nepal's U-16 side looks hungry, focused, and well-drilled — and if their current form is anything to go by, they are just one step away from successfully defending their crown.
