ICC ODI World Cup Qualifiers: Nepal secures convincing six-wicket victory over USA in dominant display

Karan KC’s outstanding performance with the new ball paved the way for Nepal’s comfortable six-wicket triumph over the USA in a one-sided encounter. Karan wreaked havoc during the powerplay, taking all his wickets in that crucial phase and setting the stage for Nepal’s commanding victory. Despite a counterattacking century from USA’s wicketkeeper Shayan Jahangir, their total of 207 proved insufficient as Nepal reached the target with seven overs to spare.

Karan’s new-ball spell proved to be a nightmare for the USA batsmen, as they lost two early wickets in his very first over. The right-arm pacer also claimed the prized scalp of American skipper Aaron Jones, who struggled for 22 balls to score just two runs. With the USA reeling at 18/4 inside the first 10 overs, opener Sushant Modani’s resilient innings of 42 off 71 deliveries provided some semblance of stability before Jahangir took charge. Jahangir displayed his aggressive intent, smashing 10 boundaries and clearing the ropes three times, offering some resistance to bolster USA’s total despite receiving little support from the lower order.

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Chasing a target of 208, Nepal never looked in trouble despite an early setback. The partnership of 49 runs between Kushal Bhurtel (39 off 54) and the top-scorer Bhim Sharki (77* off 114) played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings. Although the USA managed to break partnerships at regular intervals to disrupt Nepal’s momentum, their bowlers had an insufficient total to defend. The unbeaten 74-run stand between Sharki and Dipendra Singh Airee, who contributed a quickfire 39 off 31 deliveries, ensured Nepal reached the target comfortably with six wickets still in hand.

The final scoresheet read USA 207 all out in 49 overs, with Shayan Jahangir’s unbeaten century being the standout performance, while Nepal reached 211/4 in 43 overs. Karan KC starred with the ball, finishing with impressive figures of 4-33, well supported by Gulsan Jha’s 3-52. Saurabh Netravalkar was the lone wicket-taker for the USA, registering figures of 1-29.