Nepal claimed a decisive five-wicket win over Scotland in their One Day International match in Texas, following Scotland’s underwhelming batting performance. After losing the toss, Scotland was sent to bat and managed only 154 runs, all out in 41.4 overs. Nepal chased down the target comfortably, reaching 157-5 with 121 balls to spare.
Scotland’s hopes briefly lifted when Brandon McMullen dismissed Nepal’s captain, Rohit Paudel, bringing the score to 63-4. However, Aarif Sheikh steadied the innings, building strong partnerships with Khushal Bhurtel and Gulshan Jha to secure the victory. Sheikh struck an unbeaten 51 from 42 balls, including eight boundaries, while Jha contributed a quickfire 25 not out, with three fours and a six in a 57-run unbroken partnership.
Earlier, Scotland’s innings had a rocky start as opener Charlie Tear was bowled by Karan KC in the first over. Karan later claimed Michael Leask’s wicket and ended with figures of 2-26. Spinner Sandeep Lamichhane impressed with three wickets for 45 runs in his 10 overs. Despite Scotland’s struggles, Mark Watt emerged as the top scorer with a resilient 34 off 40 balls, hitting three sixes in an otherwise disappointing innings.