Nepal clinches five-wicket victory over Netherlands in League 2 clash

In a gripping encounter at Forthill, Dundee, on Wednesday, Nepal secured a five-wicket victory over the Netherlands in the 74th match of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2.

Chasing a target of 226, Nepal reached 226/5 in 47.1 overs, with Aarif Sheikh named Player of the Match for his pivotal 78-run knock.

Nepal’s chase was anchored by Sheikh’s composed 78 off 99 balls. He built a steady 55-run stand with skipper Rohit Paudel (89 balls) before forging a match-defining 89-run partnership off 92 balls with Dipendra Singh Airee, who remained unbeaten on 38. Their calculated approach ensured Nepal maintained control of the required run rate, sealing the win with 17 balls to spare.

Earlier, the Netherlands posted 225 in 49.1 overs after electing to bat. Despite a steady start, their innings was curtailed by disciplined Nepalese bowling. Vikramjit Singh (38), captain Scott Edwards (46), and Zach Lion-Cachet (27) made valuable contributions, but regular wickets hampered their progress.

By the end of the second powerplay, the Dutch were struggling at 166 for 7. A crucial 55-run partnership for the eighth wicket between Roelof van der Merwe (21) and Noah Croes added resistance, pushing the total to a competitive level. Croes top-scored with 48 off 55 balls, including five boundaries.

Sompal Kami was the standout bowler for Nepal, taking 3 wickets. Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, and Lalit Rajbanshi chipped in with two wickets each.

The win adds two vital points to Nepal’s tally, taking them to 8 points from 13 matches, while the Netherlands remain at 26 points from 20 matches. This victory provides a timely boost for Nepal as they continue their campaign in the ongoing league.