Sharjah, Dec 3 (UNI) Hemant Dhami’s unbeaten 22 and Naren Saud’s gritty 26 were the cornerstone of Nepal’s dramatic one-wicket win against Afghanistan in the 10th match of the Asian Cricket Council Under-19s Asia Cup at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Chasing a modest target of 124, Nepal faced an early collapse, finding themselves at 31/3 after losing key batsman.
Dhami and Saud steadied the innings with crucial contributions under immense pressure. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Nepal inched closer to the target, eventually sealing the victory in 41.3 overs with 51 balls to spare.
Earlier, Afghanistan, electing to bat, were skittled out for 123 in 35.4 overs. Faisal Shinozada top-scored with 52, but lack of support from the rest of the batting lineup proved costly.
Nepal’s bowling attack, led by Santosh Yadav and Unish Thakuri with three wickets apiece, ensured Afghanistan struggled throughout.
Afghanistan’s bowlers, spearheaded by AM Ghazanfar (3/36), fought valiantly to defend the small total, but Dhami’s calm presence at the crease and Saud’s fighting knock turned the tide in Nepal’s favour.
The thrilling win keeps Nepal’s campaign alive, demonstrating their grit and determination under pressure.
