Netherlands edge Nepal in historic triple super-over thriller

In an epic T20I clash, the Netherlands emerged victorious over Nepal after a historic third Super Over in the opening match of the Tri-Series. This marks the first instance in T20I history that a match extended into three Super Overs, showing a dramatic contest filled with twists and nerves on edge.

Nepal, having won the toss, opted to bowl first and did well to restrict the Dutch side to 152/7. Sandeep Lamichhane was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets, while Nandan Yadav grabbed 2 scalps, both maintaining a tight economy. For the Netherlands, Teja Nidamanuru top-scored with a slow 35, while Saqib Zulfiqar’s quickfire 25 at the death lifted the total to a competitive mark.

In reply, Nepal stumbled early, losing Lokesh Bam and Anil Sah cheaply. However, a steady partnership between Kushal Bhurtel (35) and captain Rohit Paudel (48) put them back on track. Nepal needed 31 runs from the final two overs. Despite scoring 15 in the 19th over, they lost both Rohit and Karan KC, adding to the pressure. It came down to the final over, where Nandan Yadav smashed two crucial boundaries, including one off the last ball, to tie the match and force a Super Over.

In the first Super Over, Nepal posted 19/1, and the Netherlands matched it, leading to a second Super Over. The Dutch then managed 17/1 in their second attempt, and Dipendra Singh Airee responded in style, hitting a six off the final ball to level the scores once again.

In the third and final Super Over, Nepal’s innings crumbled as they lost both wickets without scoring a run. The Netherlands then comfortably chased the target, sealing a dramatic win.