In a crucial match against Papua New Guinea, Nepal’s all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee was out, adding to the team’s troubles in the ICC World Cup League-2 triangular ODI series. After losing six wickets in the beginning, Nepal found themselves in big trouble while chasing a medium winning target of 180 runs.
At the end of 25 overs, Nepal had scored only 76 runs and lost six wickets. Asif Sheikh was at the crease with 40 runs off 66 balls, with one six. He was supported by Kushal Malla.
Things went wrong for Nepal from the start as opener Kushal Bhurtel was bowled on the very first ball by Papua New Guinea fast bowler Semo Kamea. Kushal had scored 55 runs in the first match against Papua New Guinea and was elected player of the match.
Gyanendra Malla was caught out by Riley Hakure for six runs on Semo’s delivery. Bhim Sarki, who got his first chance in the UAE tour, scored eight runs in 35 balls and was cut and bowled by captain Asad Bhala. Nepal was struggling at 46-3.
On the first ball of the 18th over, captain Rohit was caught behind by the wicketkeeper for one run after being bowled by Asadal Bhala. On the fifth ball, Bhala bowled Arif Sheikh for one run, and Nepal reached a miserable 53-5. Nepal’s troubles compounded when Dipendra Singh was dismissed lbw for eight runs by Airi Sese Bau.
Earlier, Papua New Guinea won the toss and batted first at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, scoring 179 runs in 49.2 overs. Papua New Guinea opener Tony Ura scored 39 off 51 balls with two fours and one six.
Nepal’s struggles have put them in a precarious position in the ICC World Cup League-2 triangular ODI series. The team will need to bounce back strongly in their next match to stay alive in the tournament.
