Nepal dominates Netherlands, secures convincing nine wickets win

KATHMANDU: Nepal showcased their cricketing prowess with a dominant performance, sealing a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over the Netherlands in an electrifying encounter at the Tribhuvan University International Ground.

Having won the toss and electing to field first, Nepal's bowlers delivered a masterclass, stifling the Dutch batting lineup to a modest total of 137 runs within the allotted 39 overs.

In pursuit of the target, Nepal's batsmen exhibited exceptional skill and determination.

Kushal Bhurtel set the tone with a gritty knock of 28 runs, providing a solid foundation for the chase. The duo of Anil Shah and Aasif Sheik then took center stage, displaying an array of strokes as they notched up impressive half-centuries, contributing 57 and 54 runs respectively to guide Nepal to a resounding victory.

The bowling department shone brightly for Nepal, with Kushal Bhurtel leading the charge with a stellar performance, claiming four crucial wickets.

Lalit Rajbanshi and Sompal Kami provided valuable support, securing two and one wicket(s) respectively, while Rohit Poudel added to the tally with a wicket of his own.

Despite valiant efforts from Dutch captain Scott Edwards, who contributed 33 runs, and noteworthy performances from Bas De Leede (27 runs) and Sybrand Abraham Engelbrecht (23 runs), the Netherlands found themselves outclassed by Nepal's clinical display.

With this emphatic win, Nepal has signaled their intent in the ICC CWC League 2, bouncing back from their previous defeat against Namibia and laying down a marker for the remainder of the tournament.