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Kathmandu – Nepal registered its second consecutive victory in the ongoing Quadrangular T20 International Series in Hong Kong, defeating Kuwait by 6 wickets in a high-scoring encounter on Thursday.
After winning their opening match against Qatar by 8 wickets on Wednesday, Nepal carried the momentum into their second fixture. Kuwait, batting first after winning the toss, posted an impressive total of 185/8 in 20 overs.
In response, Nepal chased down the target with confidence, reaching 186/4 in 18.5 overs. The victory was anchored by a sensational opening stand of 127 runs between Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh, who both scored dazzling half-centuries.
Kushal Bhurtel’s Heroics Continue
Opener Kushal Bhurtel led from the front with a stunning 81 off 50 balls, hammering 6 sixes and 6 fours. This was his 10th T20I half-century, further solidifying his place as one of Nepal’s premier batters. Bhurtel also holds a T20I century to his name, and his aggressive intent from the outset set the tone for Nepal’s chase.
In Nepal’s previous match against Qatar, Bhurtel had contributed 38 runs off just 19 balls, with 3 sixes and 4 fours, showing consistent form in the tournament.
Aasif Sheikh’s Steady Support
At the other end, Aasif Sheikh provided solid support with a well-crafted 53 off 38 balls, which included 4 sixes and 2 boundaries. It was his seventh T20I half-century, and his performance ensured Nepal maintained control throughout the chase.
Sheikh also played a vital role in the previous game, scoring 33 off 21 balls with 4 sixes. The Bhurtel-Sheikh duo had then put together an 81-run stand for the first wicket.
Lower-Order Firepower Seals the Deal
After the departure of both openers, Nepal briefly stumbled with the dismissal of Kushal Malla for just 4 runs and back-to-back wickets in the 16th over. However, a blistering cameo from Dipendra Singh Airee, who scored 31 off just 12 balls with 3 sixes and 2 fours, ensured Nepal crossed the finish line with ease.
Captain Rohit Paudel remained unbeaten on 4, while Gulshan Jha chipped in with 9*. Dipendra’s explosive 18th over, where he smashed 25 runs, proved decisive.
Kuwait’s Batting Highlights
Kuwait’s innings was powered by Clinto Anto, who top-scored with 41 off 30 balls, hitting 2 sixes and 4 fours. Meet Bhavsar (35 off 28) and Bilal Tahir (32 off just 13 balls) provided crucial contributions. Tahir was particularly aggressive, smashing 4 sixes and a four in his short stay.
Other contributions came from Ravija Sandaruwan (26 off 15), Captain Mohammad Aslam (17), and Usman Patel (13).
Nepal’s Bowling Overview
For Nepal, Sompal Kami was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets, while Nandan Yadav took 2 wickets. Lalit Rajbanshi and Kushal Bhurtel chipped in with one wicket each.
What’s Next?
The tournament features Nepal, Kuwait, Hong Kong (hosts), and Qatar. Nepal will face Hong Kong on Saturday in their third league match. The top two teams in the points table will qualify for the final, while the bottom two will compete for third place. The final is scheduled for Sunday.
