Nepal Clinches Historic Series Win Against USA in Super Over Thriller
Bhurtel’s Brilliant 92 Powers Nepal to 170
The star of the day for Nepal was Kushal Bhurtel, whose outstanding 92* off 54 balls formed the backbone of Nepal’s innings. After a shaky start with opener Aasif Sheikh falling early, Bhurtel stabilized the innings in a 49-run partnership with Anil Sah. While Sah played cautiously for his 25, it was Bhurtel who took charge, smashing seven boundaries and six sixes to propel Nepal to a competitive 170-6 in their 20 overs.
Lower-order contributions from Gulsan Jha (19 off 12) and captain Rohit Paudel (18 off 14) added crucial runs. Despite some resistance from USA’s bowlers, particularly Nosthush Kenjige (2/21) and Jasdeep Singh (2/32), Nepal managed to finish strongly, with Bhurtel anchoring the innings till the end.
USA’s Fightback Falls Short Despite Gous’ Heroics
In response, USA’s chase was anchored by a fighting 92-run second-wicket partnership between Saiteja Mukkamalla (47 off 41) and Andries Gous (62 off 43). Despite losing captain Monank Patel early to Karan KC, USA appeared to be on track to chase down the target. However, once Mukkamalla fell with the score at 100, the hosts began to crumble.
Nepal’s bowlers capitalized on the pressure, with Karan KC (3/35) and Sompal Kami (2/34) making key breakthroughs. Gous’ valiant knock of 62 kept the USA in the hunt, but his dismissal in the final over left the game tied, forcing a Super Over.
Nepal Triumphs in the Super Over
In the Super Over, Nepal’s Sompal Kami was the hero, taking two quick wickets to restrict the USA to just two runs in four balls. Nepal then comfortably chased down the three-run target with ease, thanks to captain Rohit Paudel and Bhurtel once again, sealing a historic win.
With this victory, Nepal has made a significant mark in international cricket, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. The final match, now a dead-rubber, will be played at the same venue.
This thrilling encounter not only showcases Nepal’s rising cricketing prowess but also provides a glimpse into the potential of Associate nations to deliver high-quality, nail-biting matches on the international stage. Keep an eye on these teams as they continue to challenge higher-ranked opponents and make their mark on the world of cricket.
Reference from: -https://cricket.one/match-hub/usa-vs-nep-2024-bhurtel-92-karans-three-fer-tender-gous-knock-in-vain-as-nepal-claim-series/67149fe4ac94d32b0f0285f9