Nepal Secures Thrilling ODI Victory Over Scotland

In a captivating ICC World Cup League 2 match held in Dundee, Nepal achieved their highest successful ODI run chase, triumphing over Scotland by a narrow one-wicket margin on Monday.

After being set a target of 297, Nepal sealed the win in a dramatic fashion with a wide ball bowled by Scotland’s Mark Watt on the very last delivery. With the scores level and only one wicket remaining, this unexpected error handed the visitors an improbable victory.

Earlier in the match, Scotland, after being asked to bat first, had set a competitive score of 296/7 in their 50 overs. This was largely due to opener Charlie Tear’s steady 80 and Finlay McCreath’s impressive 55.

For Nepal, the standout bowler was right-arm quick Karan KC, who took 2/43 in his 10 overs. He would later surpass this performance with a crucial contribution with the bat.

Nepal’s innings began with a solid start, with opener Khushal Bhurtel scoring 55. However, the innings suffered a setback when they went from 152 for 2 to 192 for 7.

Scotland appeared to be in command, particularly after Brandon McMullen disrupted the middle order, claiming the important wickets of Bhim Sharki, Rohit Paudel, and Dipendra Singh Airee.

However, Karan shifted the momentum by scoring an unbeaten 65 off just 41 balls, which included three fours and four sixes.

His aggressive batting formed a 60-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Gulsan Jha, who contributed 42 off 30 balls, reigniting Nepal’s chances.

With seven runs needed in the final over, Nepal lost Sandeep Lamichhane, who was caught by George Munsey on the first ball. However, a wide and a single put Karan back on strike.

He then scored two twos, leveling the scores, before Watt’s wide delivery secured an amazing victory for Nepal.

Scotland, who are currently fourth in the eight-team points table, were stunned by Nepal, who are in seventh place and celebrated one of their most significant ODI victories.

The tri-nation ODI series is scheduled to continue on Wednesday, with Nepal facing the Netherlands at the same venue in Dundee.