Dominant Nepal Crushes USA by 122 Runs in World Cup League 2

Kathmandu 

Kathmandu: Nepal registered a commanding 122-run victory over the United States in the final match of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 tri-series on Friday, securing two crucial points in the tournament context.

Chasing a mammoth target of 317 runs, the USA batting lineup collapsed under pressure, bowled out for 195 runs in 41.2 overs. Sanjay Krishnamurthi top-scored for the visitors with a fighting 56, while Shayan Jahangir (27), Shehan Jayasuriya (26), and captain Sai Mukkamalla (22) made minor contributions. Nepal's opening spell set the tone early, sending both Smit Patel and Harmeet Singh back to the pavilion for ducks.

Leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane spearheaded the bowling attack, claiming three wickets. Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulshan Jha, and Lalit Rajbanshi picked up two wickets each, while Sompal Kami chipped in with one to dismantle the American chase.

Earlier, after being put in to bat first at the Kirtipur Ground, Nepal posted a powerhouse total of 317/8 in their allotted 50 overs. The host nation's innings was built on brilliant half-centuries from Ishan Pandey, who blasted a match-high 84, and Dipendra Singh Airee, who contributed a quick-fire 59.

With this victory, Nepal moves to 24 points in the tournament standings. The win leaves the points table unchanged, with Nepal maintaining its fifth-place position.