In a one-sided encounter at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka, India handed Nepal a comprehensive 10-wicket defeat in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023.
Due to persistent rain showers throughout the day, the match was shortened to a duration of 23 overs. India’s opening duo, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, made light work of the revised target, showcasing their batting prowess. Both batsmen notched up impressive half-centuries, effectively securing their team’s berth in the Super Four stage.
Rohit Sharma delivered a dazzling performance, amassing 74 runs off 59 deliveries, embellishing his innings with six fours and five towering sixes. Complementing him, Shubman Gill contributed an elegant 67 runs from 62 balls, featuring nine boundaries.
India’s previous fixture against Pakistan on September 2 had been called off due to inclement weather, resulting in the sharing of points between the two cricketing giants.
Unfortunately for Nepal, making their debut appearance in the Asia Cup, this loss signifies their exit from the tournament.
In the first innings, Aasif Sheikh and Sompal Kami displayed resilience, aiding Nepal in setting a competitive total of 231 runs against India in this fifth match of the competition.
Nepal’s debut was marked by a fortunate beginning as the Indian fielding side faltered, dropping three catches within the initial five overs, missing an opportunity for a dream start.
Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh formed a solid opening partnership, amassing 65 runs before Shardul Thakur claimed the first wicket for India.
Aasif Sheikh played a responsible innings, reaching a well-deserved fifty before being dismissed by Mohammad Siraj for 58 runs.
Following Aasif’s departure, Nepal continued to lose wickets at regular intervals, but it was Sompal Kami who played a pivotal role in taking his team past the 200-run mark, contributing a valuable 48 runs from 56 deliveries.
Dipendra Singh Airee and Gulshan Jha also made notable contributions with scores of 29 and 23 runs, respectively.
With this commanding victory, India reaffirmed their dominance in the Asia Cup 2023, while Nepal, though exiting the tournament, gained invaluable experience from their maiden appearance on this prestigious stage.
