Cardiac kids do it again: Nepal clinch last-over thriller against Scotland

Less than 24 hours after a nerve-racking triple Super Over defeat to the Netherlands, Nepal rebounded in style to script a thrilling two-wicket victory over Scotland in the third match of the T20I Tri-Series at Titwood.

In a low-scoring battle that tested temperament more than technique, it all came down to the final over. With 4 needed from 6 balls and 3 wickets in hand, Nepal nudged closer with a trio of singles before Kiran Thagunna was dismissed, leaving the equation at one run off two balls. The moment demanded nerves of steel — and it was none other than Sandeep Lamichhane, who calmly tucked away the winning single with just one ball remaining.

This win marked Nepal's first-ever T20I victory over Scotland and revived their campaign in the series.

Lamichhane Stars in a Complete Performance

Having watched his side fall agonizingly short against the Netherlands on Monday, Lamichhane turned up with renewed fire. He spun a web around the Scottish batters with match-winning figures of 4-1-11-4, cleaning up the lower order with classic flight and accuracy.

Earlier, Karan KC (2/20) and Dipendra Singh Airee set the tone upfront, as Nepal bundled out Scotland for just 97 in 19.4 overs — their second-lowest T20I total at home (after 82 vs Pakistan in 2018).

The only resistance from the hosts came via Michael Leask, who top-scored with a fighting 46, while captain Matthew Cross was the only other batter to reach double digits.

A Shaky Chase, a Gritty Finish

Despite chasing just 98, Nepal's innings was anything but comfortable. They lost Lokesh Bam and Anil Sah inside the powerplay, and captain Rohit Paudel soon followed. At 38/3, panic began to set in.

Kushal Bhurtel provided some stability with a composed 30 off 35 but was trapped LBW by Mark Watt in the 13th over. When Basir Ahamad, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Rupesh Singh all fell cheaply, the game was on a knife’s edge.

With 10 required from 12 balls and the lower order exposed, it was composure and smart running from Karan KC, Thagunna, and eventually Lamichhane that sealed a memorable win for Nepal.

This dramatic win not only lifted Nepal's morale but also leveled their points tally in the tri-series. More importantly, it showcased their growing maturity in handling crunch moments on foreign soil.

This tour has tested nerves and rewarded grit, firmly establishing Nepal as the most entertaining side in the series.