Nepal will take on the United States of America (USA) today in Match 85 of the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2 (2023–27 cycle) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
The encounter marks the start of Nepal's tri-series including USA and the hosts UAE, which runs from October 26 to November 5, featuring a series of important matches in their World Cup League 2 campaign.
After a mixed run of results, Nepal enter the match aiming to climb the points table and build consistency. With five wins, nine losses, and two no-results from 16 games, Nepal currently sit seventh with 12 points and a net run rate of –0.138.
Rohit Paudel (C), Dipendra Singh Airee (VC), Sandeep Lamichhane, Aasif Sheikh, Anil Sah, Kushal Bhurtel, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Bhim Sharki, Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Lalit Rajbanshi, Gulshan Jha, Shahab Alam.
Nepal's squad features a blend of young energy and proven experience, led by captain Rohit Paudel and all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee. The inclusion of Sandeep Lamichhane strengthens Nepal's spin department, while Sompal Kami and Karan KC lead a seasoned pace attack.
The USA, on the other hand, have been one of the most consistent sides in the competition. They currently occupy second place in the standings with 28 points from 20 matches, including 14 wins and a strong net run rate of +0.758.
Monank Patel (C), Andries Gous, Shubham Ranjane, Saiteja Mukkamalla, Yasir Mohammad, Harmeet Singh, Rushil Ugarkar, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Juanoy Drysdale, Nosthush Kenjige, Saurabh Netravalkar, Jessy Singh, Shayan Jahangir, Smit Patel, Milind Kumar.
The USA arrive in Dubai in impressive form, having dominated recent fixtures and sitting second in the standings. Skipper Monank Patel and Saiteja Mukkamalla remain key at the top, while Milind Kumar and Saurabh Netravalkar continue to spearhead their bowling attack.
The USA head into this match with excellent momentum, having won four of their last five matches in League 2.
Head to Head
The rivalry between Nepal and the USA have been evenly matched in ODI cricket, sharing four wins each with one tie. Their last meeting in November 2024 saw the USA defeat Nepal by 37 runs, but Nepal’s improved bowling attack could turn the tide in Dubai.
Pitch and Conditions
Dubai’s pitch is expected to favour batters early on, with some assistance for spinners as the game progresses. The average first innings score in recent matches has been around 250. Winning the toss and batting first could be the preferred strategy for both sides.
Nepal will be eager to start strong in the powerplay and put pressure on the USA's top order. The key battle will likely be between Sandeep Lamichhane's spin and Monank Patel's aggressive approach.
For Nepal, a win today would not only boost their confidence but also tighten the points race in League 2. The USA, meanwhile, will look to maintain their spot among the top two.
Points Table
Standings
| Teams | M | W | L | T | N/R | PT | NRR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 United States of AmericaUSA | 24 | 18 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 36 | 0.939 |
 ScotlandSCO | 24 | 13 | 7 | 0 | 4 | 30 | 0.925 |
 NetherlandsNED | 24 | 13 | 9 | 0 | 2 | 28 | 0.165 |
 OmanOMA | 20 | 11 | 7 | 0 | 2 | 24 | 0.057 |
 CanadaCAN | 24 | 9 | 12 | 0 | 3 | 21 | -0.209 |
 NamibiaNAM | 24 | 9 | 14 | 0 | 1 | 19 | -0.502 |
 NepalNEP | 20 | 5 | 13 | 0 | 2 | 12 | -0.289 |
 United Arab EmiratesUAE | 20 | 5 | 15 | 0 | 0 | 10 | -1.240 |
Prediction
With the USA in good form, they enter the contest as slight favourites. However, if Nepal's spinners find rhythm and the top order clicks, the Rhinos could pull off a crucial win in Dubai.
Prediction: Nepal to win narrowly.
