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Nepal (Source: Twitter)
It has been a while since Nepal started garnering the attention of the cricket fraternity. They have done it again by qualifying for the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup, announcing their return to the global cricketing stage. In a thrilling semi-final of the T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier, Nepal beat UAE by 8 wickets to seal their spot in the marquee event, which is set to take place in the US and West Indies.
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Nepal is set to participate in a T20 World Cup after a gap of 10 years. The emerging Asian side last played in the premier 20-over tournament in 2014. Additionally, Oman also qualified for the World Cup after beating Bahrain by 10 wickets at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Friday, November 3.
After Nepal's historic victory at the Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmand, their supporters were seen erupting in jubilation. This is not the first time that Nepal cricket fans have stunned the world with their passion and support for their national team.
Watch the viral videos below:
CRAZY SCENES IN NEPAL...!!!!
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) November 3, 2023
They have qualified into the T20 World Cup after 10 long years. ⭐pic.twitter.com/xjaBkn7yzI
NEPAL HAVE QUALIFIED FOR THE 2024 T20 WORLD CUP....!!!pic.twitter.com/E4LARgeXqO
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) November 3, 2023
Opting to bat first after winning the toss at the Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmandu, the UAE suffered early setbacks as they lost both the openers inside the powerplay. Captain Muhammad Wassem gave a strong start but failed to capitalise. Wicketkeeper batter Vriitya Aravind played a crucial knock by scoring a 51-ball 64.
The sluggish pitch favoured the spinners and as a result, UAE were restricted to 134/9 in 20 overs. Kushal Malla (3/11) and Sandeep Lamichhane (2/14) were the pick of the bowlers in the first innings.
Aasif Sheikh's anchoring innings led Nepal to a historic win
Chasing a respectable total, Nepal started their innings on a poor note as they lost opener Kushal Bhurtel in the third over. However, his partner Aasif Sheikh took on the anchor role along with Gulsan Jha. Both put Nepal in the driver's seat. Sheikh contributed 65 runs off 51 balls while Jha's 22 runs also proved vital. Skipper Rohit Paudel's quick-fire knock (34 off 20) in the end ensured Nepal's successful run chase with 17 balls to spare.
Nepal has been showcasing their exceptional skills and talent in recent times. Their Asia Cup performance was decent and not to forget, they set numerous records in the T20 format during the 2023 Asian Games, including the highest team total and the highest margin of win in terms of runs. Nepal and Oman will face off in the final in Kirtipur on Sunday, November 5.