Nepal lost to Canada by 24 runs in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 on Saturday. Their chance to finish in the top six now hinges on their final match against Oman.
Chasing a target of 257 runs at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground, Nepal was bowled out for 232 in 46 overs, despite a strong innings of 87 from young opener Arjun Kumal.
This defeat dropped Nepal to seventh place in the League 2 standings, while Canada climbed to sixth with 29 points after completing all 36 matches. With 28 points, Nepal must win against Oman to maintain a chance of staying in the top six and preserving their One Day International ODI status.
Arjun Kumal’s 87 Goes Unrewarded
Nepal started their chase under pressure after Canada set a challenging total. Kumal’s impressive 87 runs off 112 balls, featuring four boundaries, was the highlight. He fell just 13 runs short of his debut ODI century in the 41st over.
Unfortunately, Nepal struggled to provide him with adequate support. Dipendra Singh Airee contributed 27 runs, while Ishan Pandey and Gulshan Jha added 21 each. Aasif Sheikh and Karan KC remained not out at 20 and 17, respectively.
The loss of Kumal was crucial, leading to a rapid decline in Nepal’s innings. They ended with 232 runs, falling 24 runs short of the target.
Yuvraj Samra’s Century Propels Canada to 256
Earlier, Canada won the toss and opted to bat, scoring 256 all out in 50 overs.
Opener Yuvraj Samra anchored the innings with an unbeaten 105 runs off 117 balls, including 11 fours and four sixes. Aaron Johnson supported with 36 runs, while Harsh Thaker 34 and captain Hamza Tariq 30 helped elevate the total.
Canada appeared strong at 219 for three, but Nepal’s bowlers made a comeback, taking crucial wickets to restrict Canada. Lalit Rajbanshi was Nepal’s standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 39 runs in 10 overs. Captain Sandeep Lamichhane took three wickets, while Dipendra Singh Airee and Rohit Paudel added two and one, respectively.
Despite late wickets, Canada set a challenging target for Nepal.
Nepal’s Top Six Position in Jeopardy
Nepal entered Saturday’s match in sixth place with 28 points from 34 games, just ahead of Canada, who had 27 points from 35 matches.
With this result, Canada secured 29 points and moved above Nepal, who dropped to seventh place.
Nepal has already missed the chance for a top four finish and direct qualification for the Cricket World Cup Qualifier. Their focus now is to secure sixth place for a better chance of retaining their ODI status.
Their upcoming match against Oman is crucial for staying in the top six, although a guaranteed ODI spot seems unlikely.
Final Match Against Oman Critical
Nepal will face Oman on Monday, October 19, in their last League 2 match.
The loss to Canada means Nepal cannot afford another defeat if they wish to improve their standing and finish in the top six.
While Kumal’s innings and the bowling performance led by Rajbanshi were positives, Nepal must turn their League 2 campaign around to have a chance at retaining their ODI status.
With high stakes, this final match against Oman could determine Nepal’s ODI future.