The men’s national cricket team of Nepal have made headlines in the ongoing Asian Games cricket in China, following two successive runaway victories against minnows Mongolia and Maldives.
In the opener, they wreaked havoc on a relatively inexperienced and weak Mongolia who played their first T20 international match, after gaining ICC membership in 2021.
The debut match turned out to be a nightmare for the Mongolian outfit as they got absolutely walloped by the vastly experienced and formidable opposition.
On the other hand Nepal took full advantage of the opponent’s weaknesses and plundered them to submission in a match that shattered a series of standing records.
The one-sided victory saw Nepal set the highest-ever total (314/3) in the T20 international.
In addition, Kushal Malla broke the existing record for the fastest century. His century came off just 33 balls.
Another record breaking performance came from Dipendra Singh Airee, who cracked the fastest half-century ever off only 9 balls.
By dismissing the opposition for 41 runs, Nepal’s 273-run winning margin was the biggest ever.
Nepal vs Maldives
In the second match Nepal faced some semblance of resistance from Maldives, however they won comfortably by 138 runs at the end of the day.
Spotlight was on Abinash Bohara, a right arm medium fast bowler for his sterling performance.
He ended the match on a career high, claiming 6 wickets in 3.4 overs for 11 runs only.
Group A winners Nepal’s reward is a quarter-final against India’s second string side on Tuesday.
At the same time Nepal faces its real test for the first time in the competition. They take on a capable, competitive and dangerous opposition.
This is one big opportunity for Coach Monty Desai’s boys to strike it rich and prove themselves further.
Rohit Paudel led Team Nepal must seize the opportunity to settle a score with their neighbor in order to put themselves in medal contention.
They are in a make or break situation. They got to string together another winning performance individually and collectively on all fronts of the game.
They have the momentum going into the decisive match. It is imperative that they ride on the momentum, rise to the occasion and play to their ability.
They should focus on getting a winning outcome in the match. They need to build a winning mentality, unwavering self -belief and confidence, coupled with consistency.
Let us not forget the fact that the second string Indian side remains a formidable force. They have enough depth in talent when it comes to batting and bowling, making them a lethal team.
Interestingly India enjoys an edge over Nepal and starts the match as favorites.
That being said, this is the moment for Nepali cricketers to get the better of odds and corner glory.
They have to step up and give their very best to provide continuity to their winning streak. They must not squander the opportunity to prevail.
