In a nail-biting finish, Nepal outlasts the USA in a dramatic Super Over to secure the T20 series 2-0 with one match still to play.
Nepal delivered an unforgettable performance, defeating the USA in a thrilling Super Over in the second T20 of their bilateral series. With the win, Nepal not only clinched the match but also secured the T20 series 2-0 at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, with one match remaining.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions as both teams fought hard, tying at 170 runs each at the end of their 20 overs. Nepal’s hero of the day, Sompal Kami, played a pivotal role by defending 7 runs in the final over, ensuring that the contest would be decided in a Super Over. Kami’s brilliant bowling display continued into the Super Over, where he restricted the USA to just 2 runs while picking up two quick wickets, effectively swinging the momentum in Nepal’s favor.
When it was Nepal’s turn to bat in the Super Over, captain Rohit Paudel confidently knocked off the required 3 runs, leading his team to a historic victory on foreign soil. This victory not only secured the series win but also marked a significant achievement for Nepalese cricket.
Nepal’s Steady Start and USA’s Fightback
Earlier in the match, Nepal opted to bat first after winning the toss. Kushal Bhurtel was in sublime form, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 92 runs off 54 balls, a performance that earned him the Player of the Match award. Nepal ended their innings with a solid total of 170/6 in 20 overs. Supporting Bhurtel’s knock, opener Anil Shah contributed 25 runs, while Gulshan Jha and Rohit Paudel chipped in with 19 and 18 runs, respectively.
On the bowling front for the USA, Jasdeep Singh and Nosthush Kenjige stood out, each taking 2 wickets to keep the visitors from posting an even bigger total.
In reply, the USA looked poised to chase down the target, largely thanks to Aaron Jones, who top-scored with 62 runs. However, the chase hit a roadblock when Jones was dismissed on the penultimate ball of the innings as he attempted to seal victory with a boundary. The USA finished their 20 overs at 170/8, forcing the game into a Super Over. Saiteja Mukkamalla also contributed a valuable 47 runs, but it wasn’t enough to get the hosts across the line.
Sompal Kami’s Heroics Lead Nepal to Victory
Nepal’s bowling unit held their nerve throughout the match. Karan KC was instrumental, taking 3 wickets, while Sompal Kami and others chipped in crucial breakthroughs. But it was Kami’s outstanding performance in both the final over and the Super Over that turned the tide in Nepal’s favor, making him the standout bowler of the match.
This victory follows Nepal’s 17-run win in the first T20 match of the series, putting them in a commanding position heading into the final game on October 21. After the T20 series concludes, Nepal will also be gearing up for a triangular series involving Scotland as part of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2.
Looking Ahead
With one match still to play, Nepal will be keen to complete a clean sweep over the USA before shifting focus to the upcoming triangular series. The team, led by Rohit Paudel, will be aiming to carry forward the momentum from this thrilling victory.
Nepal’s Playing XI: Rohit Paudel (c), Anil Shah, Aasif Sheikh, Kushal Bhurtel, Gulshan Jha, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Karan KC, Sompal Kami, Rijan Dhakal, Sagar Dhakal.
