Worst dream of Nepali cricket team came true as the inexperienced lads suffered a 49-run defeat against neighbors Afghanistan in the opening match of the U-17 Asia Cup at the Penang Sports Club Ground, Malaysia today.
For the revenge of two defeats in the U-15 Asia Cup, Afghanistan bowled out Nepal for mere 127 runs in 44.4 overs after scoring 176/9 in their allotted 45 overs. But it was not before, Nepal had squandered a very good opening bowling that reduced the opponents to 35/7.
Afghanistan overcame a disastrous start with No 8, No 9 and No 10 hitting runs to take Nepal aback. No 9 Agshar Hussain topscored with unbeaten 84 runs in just 85 balls. He hit five boundaries and four sixes. No 8 Aimal Wafa scored 32 before was bowled by Prabesh Shrestha, the top wicket-taker for Nepal. Man of the match Izatullah Khan, batting at No 10, hit a four and two sixes for his unbeaten 21.
Left-arm pacer Prabesh Shrestha took three wickets after opening pair Eraj Shrestha and Nirmal Simangaida each took two wickets giving Nepal a dream start. But the lower-order charging of Afghanistan, aided by a couple of dropped catches, and a disappointing batting performance let down Nepal.
Captain Gyanendra Malla was the only one who stood out in batting making 85-ball 48 runs but it was not enough. Chasing a good total, Nepal lost Dipen Shrestha (2) and Sunam Gautam early. Opener Rajan Khadgi played patiently saving his wicket for 17 runs in 37 balls with a boundary.
Despite lining up players without any international experience, Nepal were at a good position while the score was 104/4 with Gyanendra showing his class. In his 85-ball knock, Gyanendra hit seven fours but missed the half-century by two runs.
Nirmal Simangaida was the only other batsman with good contribution. His 67-ball 25 was the second highest score of the innings that saw eight batsmen failing to touch double digit.
Izatullah Khan, one of the best bowlers of the U-15 Asia Cup, wrecked Nepal’s hopes taking five wickets in his 9 over spell. Aimal Wafa took two wickets while Mohd Basir, Gulbudeen Naib and Jawid Ahamdi each took one.