Nepal wins hearts despite loss, shines in British media

KATHMANDU: Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium witnessed a thrilling T20 clash on Sunday as Nepal came agonizingly close to toppling world champions England, ultimately falling short by just four runs—but winning hearts globally.

Chasing a formidable 185-run target, Nepal’s fearless display of skill and determination kept England on edge until the very last ball, with 17,000 fans roaring in appreciation.

Lokesh Bam led the charge with a blistering 39 off 20 balls, smashing two towering sixes off world-renowned pacer Jofra Archer.

Experienced campaigner Dipendra Singh Airee contributed a quickfire 44 off 29 balls, completing his 2,000 T20 international runs milestone.

Captain Rohit Paudel’s 39-run innings, combined with an 82-run partnership with Airee, brought Nepal tantalizingly close to victory.

Nepal’s bowlers matched the batters’ intensity. Sher Malla made a dream debut, claiming the prized wicket of Phil Salt with his very first delivery.

Spin sensation Sandeep Lamichhane bowled economically, conceding only 25 runs in four overs, while Airee and Nandan Yadav picked up two wickets each, disrupting England’s rhythm.

Nepal’s courageous performance attracted global media attention. The Telegraph of the UK noted that the presence of Nepalese fans at Wankhede “spooked England,” while The Guardian described chasing 185 runs as “modest by Himalayan standards.” Reuters highlighted that former South African pacer Dale Steyn was so impressed he expressed willingness to train with the Nepalese team.

Broadcasters including Sky Sports, BBC, and Daily Mail emphasized that England’s win felt more like relief than celebration.

Though Nepal narrowly lost, the team earned the ultimate “Lapp of Honour,” sending a clear message: Nepal is no longer just an underdog but an emerging powerhouse in world cricket.

As England captain Harry Brook admitted, this win was far from sweet—a testament to Nepal’s extraordinary performance.