By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Nov 01, 2025 15:40 PM • 24 views
Nepal's aspirations in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 suffered another significant blow today, as they succumbed to a four-wicket defeat against a determined United States side. The loss marks a growing concern for the Rhinos, who are now enduring a challenging run in the fifth tri-series. This latest result sees Nepal fall to their second consecutive defeat against the Americans in this series, and their third overall, having also been bested by the hosts, the UAE. The series has proven to be a tough proving ground for the Nepali squad, who previously lost by 106 runs to the USA and by five wickets to the UAE in their opening encounters. Currently languishing in seventh place on the League 2 standings with 12 points from 19 matches, Nepal faces an uphill battle to climb into contention. In stark contrast, the United States continues its impressive form, leading the table comfortably with 34 points from 23 games, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the competition.
USA Clinches Victory with Composed Chase
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium witnessed a competitive battle after Nepal, put in to bat, posted a respectable 271 all out in their allotted 50 overs. However, the target proved insufficient as the USA meticulously chased it down, reaching 272/6 with an over to spare. The American run-chase was meticulously built on key contributions and crucial partnerships. Saitija Mukkamalla anchored the innings with a patient yet effective 75 runs off 101 balls, including two fours and a six, providing the stability needed. Milind Kumar offered aggressive support, smashing 70 off just 66 balls, decorated with seven boundaries and a six. Shayan Jahangir's 36 runs also proved vital, while captain Monank Patel (21), Shubham Ranjane (19), Smit Patel (16), Sanjay Krishnamurthy (15 not out), and Harmeet Singh (13 not out) all chipped in with essential scores down the order. The turning point in the USA's innings undoubtedly came from the formidable 123-run fourth-wicket stand between Mukkamalla and Milind Kumar. Earlier, Jahangir and Smit Patel had laid a solid foundation with a 53-run opening partnership, setting the tone for the chase. While Nepal's bowling unit showed flashes of brilliance, led by Sandeep Lamichhane's three wickets, the support was not consistent enough to stem the flow of runs. Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, and Gulshan Kumar Jha each managed to claim a solitary wicket.
Nepal's Batting Effort Falls Short
Earlier in the day, Nepal's innings began promisingly, but they ultimately failed to convert promising starts into an unassailable total. Dipendra Singh Airee was the standout performer, scoring a fluent 75 from 67 balls, featuring three sixes and two fours, which showcased his power-hitting ability. Karan KC contributed a useful 49, while Kushal Bhurtel (47), Bhim Sharki (43), and captain Rohit Kumar Paudel (37) all provided valuable support, yet none could carry on to a truly defining century. Nepal's strongest partnerships included an 89-run stand between Dipendra and Rohit for the fifth wicket, which helped in recovering from early jitters, and an 86-run partnership between Kushal and Bhim for the second wicket, which injected momentum into the innings. For the United States, Harmeet Singh was the pick of the bowlers, snaring three crucial wickets. Saurabh Netravalkar and Nosthush Kenjige chipped in with two wickets apiece, while Jasdeep Singh and Shubham Ranjane each claimed one, collectively delivering a disciplined bowling performance that kept Nepal's scoring in check. With this defeat, Nepal will need to regroup swiftly and find a way to convert their promising individual performances into a cohesive team effort if they are to revive their fortunes in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2.
