Nepal has posted their record-highest ODI total against Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the first match of the decisive ODI series under CWC League 2. Aasif Sheikh’s maiden ODI ton helped Nepal post 297 before being bowled out in 49.1 overs.
Nepal’s previous highest ODI total was 287 while chasing a total of 286 against Namibia in TU Ground a month ago.
Invited to bat first at TU Cricket Ground, Openers Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh added 110 runs for the first wicket before the dismissal of Bhurtel for 45 runs. Kushal Malla (2), promoted to number three was dismissed cheaply, followed by Gyanendra Malla (10).
Aasif Sheikh and Rohit Paudel then shared 67 runs for the fourth wicket. Aasif completed his maiden ODI ton and also reached the landmark of 1000 ODI runs, becoming the second batter to do so. Aasif also became the fifth batter to score an ODI century for Nepal after Paras Khadka, Rohit Paudel, Dipendra Singh Airee and Kushal Bhurtel.
Eventually, the wicketkeeper batter was dismissed for a run-a-ball 110, smacking 12 fours and a couple of sixes. Rohit, too was dismissed for 30 after a couple of balls as Nepal were down to 208/5 in the 38th over.
Nepal could only add 89 runs for the last five wickets. Bhim Sharki scored 44 runs from 38 balls with five fours. Aarif Sheikh also assisted 15 runs.
For PNG, Semo Kamea registered his career-best figure, grabbing his first fifer in ODI. He conceded 38 runs from 9.1 overs. Riley Hekure also pocketed three wickets.
