Nepal registers back-to-back wins in U-19 Asia Cup qualifiers

KATHMANDU: Nepal continued its impressive run in the ICC U-19 World Cup Asia Qualifier by securing a commanding 8-wicket victory over Oman in their second group stage match held at the Mulpani Cricket Ground today.

Chasing a modest target of 118 runs, Nepal cruised to victory in just 14.3 overs, losing only two wickets.

Openers Sahil Patel and Niraj Kumar Yadav provided a strong foundation with an 85-run opening stand that laid the groundwork for the comfortable chase.

Niraj narrowly missed a half-century, falling for 46 off 31 balls with 5 boundaries and 2 sixes.

He was dismissed by Soumya Bhavinsampat. Shortly after, Sahil Patel followed, scoring 44 runs before also falling to Soumya.

Skipper Naren Bhatt remained unbeaten on 12 to guide the team home.

Earlier, Oman, who won the toss and opted to bat, were bundled out for just 117 runs in 36 overs. Only one batsman, No. 3 Brajesh Shah, managed to withstand Nepal’s disciplined bowling attack.

Shah scored a gritty 52 off 78 balls, including 6 fours. The rest of the batting lineup struggled, with eight players failing to reach double digits.

Nepal’s bowling was spearheaded by Yuvraj Khatri, who delivered a match-winning performance.

Khatri claimed 5 wickets for just 15 runs in his 7-over spell, including 2 maidens.

Santosh Yadav provided excellent support, picking up 2 wickets.

This victory marks Nepal’s second consecutive win in the tournament, having defeated the UAE by 5 runs (DLS method) in their opening game.

With 4 points from 2 matches, Nepal now stands in a strong position heading into their next fixture.

Oman, on the other hand, remains winless after suffering another heavy defeat—this time back-to-back after their 8-wicket loss to Afghanistan yesterday.

Up next, Nepal will face Hong Kong on Wednesday, while Afghanistan will take on the UAE.