Nepal vs Scotland saw one of the most thrilling matches in recent memory, as Nepal edged past the hosts by 1 wicket in the final ball of the innings at Forthill Cricket Ground. Chasing 297 runs in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, Nepal reached the target with just one ball and one wicket remaining.
The game came down to the last ball, with Nepal needing just 1 run. Scotland’s Mark Watt bowled a wide, handing Nepal a dramatic win. Though Scotland’s wicketkeeper ran out Rijan Dhakal, the umpire had already called it a wide, making the run-out irrelevant and securing the victory for Nepal.
Karan KC was the hero for Nepal, staying unbeaten on 65 off 41 balls, which included 3 fours and 4 sixes. Earlier, opener Kushal Bhurtel gave Nepal a solid start, scoring 53 off 44 balls with 11 boundaries. He shared a 72-run opening stand with Aasif Sheikh, who contributed 20 from 33 balls.
Gulshan Jha added a quickfire 42 off 30 deliveries, smashing 3 fours and 3 sixes. Bhim Sharki played a composed knock of 40 off 48 balls, while captain Rohit Paudel chipped in with 37 off 56. It was a true team performance from Nepal’s batting unit.
Scotland, after winning the toss and choosing to bat, posted 296/7 in 50 overs. Charlie Tear led the way with 80 off 72 balls, hitting 12 boundaries and a six before being caught behind off Karan KC. Finlay McCreath made 55 off 67, while captain Richie Berrington hit 40 from 46 balls.
Other contributions included Matthew Cross with 39 runs, Michael Leask’s 18, and Brandon McMullen’s 19. George Munsey added 12 at the top. For Nepal, Karan KC, Sompal Kami, and Rijan Dhakal each picked up 2 wickets, while Sandeep Lamichhane grabbed one.
This crucial win lifts Nepal to seventh place in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 table, with 8 points from 13 games. Scotland remains in fourth with 20 points from 17 matches. This league serves as a qualification pathway for the ODI World Cup 2027, with the top four advancing to the global qualifier and the bottom four entering the playoffs. The tri-series also features the Netherlands.
