Nepal fall short in chase as Bangladesh A secure 32-run triumph

Bangladesh A registered their first victory of the Top End T20 Series after defeating Nepal by 32 runs in the ninth match of the tournament at Marrara Cricket Ground No. 2 on Saturday.

Batting first after winning the toss, Bangladesh A posted a commanding total of 186 for 6 in their 20 overs. Opener Jishan Alam anchored the innings with a fluent 73 off 46 balls, while Afif Hossain provided late fireworks, smashing an unbeaten 48 from just 23 deliveries. Mohammad Naim also chipped in with 25.

Nepal's bowlers worked hard but struggled to contain the scoring. Rijan Dhakal was the most successful, picking up 2 for 34, while Sandeep Lamichhane delivered a tidy spell of 1 for 21.

In reply, Nepal faltered early and were unable to build strong partnerships. Kushal Malla fought a lone battle with an unbeaten 59 off 47 balls, hitting six fours and a six, while Aasif Sheikh added 28. Despite their efforts, Nepal finished on 154 for 7, falling well short of the target.

Bangladesh A's left-arm spinner Rakibul Hasan was the pick of the bowlers, returning impressive figures of 3 for 18 in his four overs. Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud claimed 2 for 36.

The win lifted Bangladesh A to 1–2 in the series standings, while Nepal remained winless with two defeats.

Jishan Alam (Bangladesh A) was adjudged Player of the Match for his 73-run knock.