Nepal crushes Japan to seal second win in U-16 Elite Cup

KATHMANDU: Nepal continued its dominant run in the ACC Men’s U-16 Elite Cup Cricket, thrashing Japan by 80 runs with a stellar bowling display in their second group-stage match.

Electing to bat first after winning the toss at Bayuemas Oval in Malaysia, Japan crumbled against Nepal’s tight bowling attack, managing just 80 runs in 34.3 overs.

Only captain Charlie Harahinge resisted with a gritty 36 off 48 balls, including four boundaries. No other Japanese batter, except Gambi Harahinge (13), reached double digits.

Nepal’s left-arm spinner Shubham Khanal starred with the ball, grabbing a brilliant five-wicket haul (5/15) in his 10-over spell.

He was well-supported by Abhay Yadav (2 wickets), while Sushil Rawal and Bipin Sharma claimed one wicket each.

This comprehensive victory marked Nepal’s second straight win in the tournament, following their opening triumph over Singapore.

With two back-to-back wins, Nepal has strengthened its chances of reaching the semifinals from Group A, which also includes Indonesia, Bhutan, and Japan.

Japan had earlier defeated Bhutan in their first match. Nepal, the defending champion, looks poised to retain its crown, having won all previous three editions of the tournament.

Nepal will next face Indonesia on Sunday before concluding the group stage against Bhutan.

The final is scheduled for Ashar 21.