By reinstating their experienced opening pair, Nepal showcased the strength of the Kushal–Asif duo in the match against the United States. In the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, Nepal successfully chased down a target of 196 runs in just 37 overs to secure a remarkable victory over the USA team. Kushal Bhurtel played a stellar innings, scoring an unbeaten century off 120 balls, while Asif Sheikh contributed 58 runs before being dismissed. Dipendra Singh Airee added pressure on the USA bowling with figures of 4 wickets in 7 overs and 3 balls. (2 Jestha, Kathmandu)
On Saturday, Nepal delivered an excellent performance to defeat the United States in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2. Facing a strong American side, Nepal displayed resilience and strength. The top-order batting played a crucial role in Nepal’s victory, rekindling confidence and hope after a prolonged period of underperformance. Additionally, Nepal is also providing opportunities to new players.
In the recently completed Nepal–Oman–UAE series, Asif Sheikh and Kushal Bhurtel opened the innings in the first two matches but had poor starts. Following this, the opening pair was rearranged; against UAE, Vinod Bhandari and Arjun Kumal opened and lost the first wicket after 25 runs. In the subsequent match, Vinod and Asif opened. In the current series, Vinod and Asif started as openers against Scotland, but without success.
In the second game against the USA, Nepal returned to their former opening duo of Kushal and Asif. Together, they compiled a 145-run partnership that laid the foundation for victory. Kushal delivered an extraordinary unbeaten century, while Asif scored 58 before dismissal. Nepal chased down the USA’s target of 196 runs in just 37 overs at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground. Kushal struck 13 fours and 4 sixes in his 120-ball unbeaten 120.
Kushal Bhurtel commented, “The top order had not been giving us good starts. Today, Asif and I gave a solid opening, and I’m happier about the century than anything else.” His partnership with Asif is the second-highest ODI opening stand for Nepal. Asif scored 58 runs off 72 balls, while debutant Isan Pande remained unbeaten on 20 from 30 balls.
Bowling first after winning the toss at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, the USA lost their first wicket at 22 runs. From 122–1, they added only 73 more runs while losing 9 wickets. Dipendra Singh Airee was the standout bowler for Nepal, taking 4 wickets for 24 runs in 7 overs and 3 balls. Saurav Sompal took 2 wickets, while Sandeep Lamichhane and Gulsan Jha each claimed one wicket.
