One-day series: Nepal taking on Canada in third match today

KATHMANDU: Nepal is competing in the third and final one-day series match against Canada at the TU Cricket Ground, Kirtipur today.

Having already clinched victories in the matches held on Thursday and Saturday, Nepal, now the series champions, anticipates a strong performance in the concluding match today.

The series’ final showdown is scheduled to commence at 9:15 am.

In the opening match on Thursday, Nepal emerged victorious by seven runs, and they followed it up with another triumph, winning the second match by four wickets.

With two wins in hand, Nepal has secured the series title with one match to spare.

In the first encounter on Thursday, Nepal defended a modest target of 225 runs as captain Rohit Paudel’s impressive four-wicket haul propelled the team to victory.

Chasing the target, Canada succumbed to Nepal’s robust bowling attack, managing only 217 runs in 47.5 overs.

Captain Paudel’s exceptional bowling performance, supported by two wickets each from Lalit Rajbanshi and others, turned the tide in Nepal’s favor.

In the second match, Paudel’s leadership shone again as Nepal chased down Canada’s target of 286 runs in 45 overs and 1 ball.

Paudel led the charge with a brilliant 87-run innings, ably supported by Dev Khanal, who contributed 76 runs, and Anil Sah, who played a record half-century.

The team’s balanced performance with the bat secured their second consecutive victory in the series.

Nepal’s bowlers, including debutant Akash Chand, played a crucial role in restricting Canada to 285 runs, with Paudel and Kushal Malla claiming two wickets each.

The inclusion of Akash Chand, known for his pivotal role in the U-19 Cricket World Cup, added depth to Nepal’s bowling lineup.

Nepal’s early series triumph reflects a promising start, showcasing both batting and bowling prowess, as they gear up for the final match against Canada today.