Nepal broke their winless streak in the Top End T20 Series with a commanding 66-run victory over Hobart Hurricanes Academy, riding on a solid batting display and a sensational spell from Nandan Yadav.
Winning the toss, Nepal's innings had steady contributions throughout. Aarif Sheikh (33 off 26) anchored the middle order, while openers Aasif Sheikh (29 off 28) and Kushal Bhurtel (27 off 20) laid a solid platform. The Hurricanes kept chipping away with wickets, but Nepal’s lower middle-order ensured the momentum wasn’t lost.
Lokesh Bam provided the late flourish, striking timely boundaries including a six in the closing overs to push Nepal to a competitive 180/7 in 20 overs – their best batting effort of the tournament so far.
Defending a strong total, Nepal's bowlers struck early and never let the Hurricanes settle. The standout was Nandan Yadav, who ran through the batting line-up with a fiery three-over spell that returned figures of 5/17. His pace and accuracy proved decisive as Hobart's chase collapsed under pressure.
The Hurricanes were bowled out for just 114 in 16.1 overs, handing Nepal a convincing first win of the series.
The result marks Nepal's first victory in the Top End T20 Series, bringing relief to the side after a difficult run.
