Nepal Eliminated From Super 8 Race After Another Loss

Thousands of Nepali supporters filled the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday hoping their team would at least put up a strong fight. After a disappointing defeat against Italy, fans were expecting a better performance. However, Nepal suffered another setback, losing to the West Indies by nine wickets and officially ending their chances of reaching the Super 8 stage.

A supporter at the stadium said he never expected an easy win against a powerful side like the West Indies but hoped Nepal would compete more strongly.

Nepali fans had reason to believe in the team because Nepal had defeated the West Indies 2-1 in a T20I series in Sharjah last year. But this time, the Caribbean team dominated the match in every department.

Toss And Batting Struggles

West Indies won the toss and chose to bowl first after noticing some moisture on the pitch. Nepal captain Rohit Kumar Paudel said his team would have also preferred bowling first.

Nepal completed their full 20 overs, but scoring runs remained difficult. The team lost Kushal Bhurtel in the opening over and reached 50 runs only in the 12th over, already losing half the lineup by then.

Dipendra Singh Airee and Sompal Kami tried to rebuild the innings after Nepal were struggling at 73/6. Airee scored 58 runs from 47 balls, becoming only the second Nepali player to hit a half-century in a T20 World Cup. Kami supported well, remaining not out on 26 runs off 15 balls.

Nepal finished with 133/8 — a target considered low against a strong batting side.

West Indies bowler Jason Holder took four wickets, while Akeal Hosein, Matthew Forde, Shamar Joseph and Roston Chase picked one each.

West Indies Chase Comfortably

Defending 134 runs was always going to be challenging. The West Indies made their intentions clear early, attacking from the beginning.

Although Brandon King was dismissed after scoring 22, captain Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer ensured there were no further problems. Hope remained unbeaten on 61, while Hetmyer scored 46.

West Indies reached the target easily, losing only one wicket and becoming the first team in the tournament to qualify for the Super 8.

Reactions After The Match

The West Indies captain praised Nepal and said Associate teams are improving in international cricket. He added that stronger nations should continue playing against them to help grow the game.

Nepal players also admitted the importance of the toss and promised to improve in future matches.

What’s Next For Nepal

Nepal’s campaign has been disappointing, raising concerns about lack of exposure against top-level teams. Coaches and international players have also suggested more matches between full-member and associate nations to help development.

Nepal will now play their final match of the tournament against Scotland on Wednesday.