Nepal vs Scotland: Nepal Chase 171 to Seal Crucial Group C Win
Nepal produced a commanding performance to defeat Scotland by seven wickets in the 33rd Match of Group C at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The thrilling encounter took place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, where Nepal successfully chased down 171 in just 19.2 overs.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Nepal executed their plans efficiently with both ball and bat. A composed chase led by Dipendra Singh Airee ensured Nepal walked away with two valuable points.
Scotland Post 170/7 After Solid Start
Batting first, Scotland finished at 170/7 in their 20 overs. They made a steady start in the powerplay, scoring 52 runs in the first six overs.
Michael Jones played a standout innings, scoring 71 off 45 balls, including eight fours and three sixes at a strike rate of 157.78. He anchored the innings and built an 80-run opening partnership with George Munsey, who contributed 27 off 29 balls.
Brandon McMullen added 25 off 19 balls, but Scotland struggled to accelerate in the final overs due to disciplined bowling from Nepal.
Sompal Kami Leads the Bowling Attack
Sompal Kami delivered a match-defining spell, taking 3 wickets for 25 runs in his four overs at an economy of 6.20. He removed key batters including Jones and McMullen at crucial moments.
Nandan Yadav supported well with figures of 2/34, while captain Rohit Paudel and Kushal Bhurtel picked up one wicket each. Nepal’s bowlers ensured Scotland did not cross the 180-run mark, which proved decisive in the end.
Nepal vs Scotland: Clinical Chase by Nepal
Nepal began their run chase aggressively. They scored 56 runs in the powerplay, staying ahead of the required run rate.
Kushal Bhurtel scored a confident 43 off 35 balls, hitting four sixes. Aasif Sheikh added 33 off 27 balls as the pair stitched together a 74-run opening partnership.
Scotland found hope when Michael Leask produced a strong spell, claiming 3/30 in four overs. He dismissed Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, and Rohit Paudel, reducing Nepal to 98/3 in 13.2 overs.
At that stage, Nepal needed 73 runs from 40 balls — a challenging but achievable target.
Dipendra Singh Airee Finishes in Style
Dipendra Singh Airee turned the game decisively in Nepal’s favor. The all-rounder smashed an unbeaten 50 off just 23 balls, striking four boundaries and three sixes at a remarkable strike rate of 217.39.
He formed an unbeaten 73-run partnership with Gulsan Jha, who contributed 24 off 17 balls. Their calculated yet aggressive approach dismantled Scotland’s bowling attack in the death overs.
Nepal reached 171/3 with four balls remaining, sealing a memorable seven-wicket victory.
Key Match Highlights – Nepal vs Scotland
- Scotland: 170/7 in 20 overs
- Nepal: 171/3 in 19.2 overs
- Michael Jones: 71 (45)
- Dipendra Singh Airee: 50* (23)
- Sompal Kami: 3/25
- Michael Leask: 3/30
Turning Points of the Match
1. Middle-Over Control by Nepal
Sompal Kami’s three wickets prevented Scotland from accelerating beyond 170.
2. Leask’s Triple Strike
Michael Leask briefly shifted momentum by removing three key batters.
3. Airee–Jha Partnership
The unbeaten 73-run stand sealed the chase and eliminated pressure in the final overs.
Impact on Group C Standings
This win significantly boosts Nepal’s chances of qualifying for the knockout stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Their balanced squad, featuring aggressive batters and disciplined bowlers, makes them strong contenders moving forward.
Scotland, meanwhile, will need to address concerns in their death bowling and finishing ability if they are to remain competitive in Group C.
Nepal vs Scotland: Final Verdict
The Nepal vs Scotland clash delivered high drama and quality cricket at Wankhede Stadium. Nepal’s composure under pressure and clinical finishing made the difference.
Dipendra Singh Airee’s explosive unbeaten fifty will be remembered as one of the standout innings of the tournament so far. With momentum on their side, Nepal now look poised to challenge bigger teams in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
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