USA Set 196-Run Target for Nepal in ICC World Cup League 2 Clash

The United States set a target of 196 runs for Nepal after being bowled out for 195 in 43.3 overs during their ICC World Cup League-2 triangular series match at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

USA got off to a steady start, with opener Smit Patel leading the charge. He played a brilliant knock of 83 runs off 89 balls, smashing 8 fours and 3 sixes. Patel was dropped early in the innings when he was on just 14, and he made Nepal pay with a solid innings at the top.

Smit Patel and Sahan Jayasuriya built a crucial 100-run partnership for the second wicket, stabilizing the innings after an early breakthrough. Jayasuriya played an important supporting role, scoring 52 runs off 52 balls with 5 fours and 1 six before being dismissed.

After the strong partnership, USA’s innings began to collapse under pressure from Nepal’s disciplined bowling attack.

Milind Kumar contributed 28 runs off 41 balls, including 2 fours and 2 sixes, before being dismissed LBW. Harmeet Singh added 14 runs but also fell as Nepal continued to strike at regular intervals.

USA captain Sitaia Mukkamalla struggled at the crease and was bowled for just 4 runs. Sayan Jahangir managed 6 runs before being bowled, while Sanjay Krishnamurthi was dismissed for 1 run.

The lower order collapsed quickly, with Shubham Ranjane and Mohammad Mohsin both getting out cheaply, including a run-out dismissal. Nosthus Kenjige added just 1 run before being trapped LBW, as USA were eventually bowled out for 195 runs.

Nepal’s bowling attack was led by a disciplined and effective performance. Dipendra Singh Airee was the standout bowler, taking 4 wickets for just 24 runs in 7.3 overs with excellent control and economy.

Sompal Kami supported well with 2 wickets, conceding 35 runs in his spell. Sandeep Lamichhane and Gulshan Jha also chipped in with one wicket each, helping Nepal restrict the USA below the 200-run mark.

With a target of 196 runs, Nepal will look to chase down the total and secure a strong result in the ICC World Cup League-2 fixture.