Nepal climb to fifth place in CWCL 2 standings after crucial win over Scotland
Kirtipur, May 18
Nepal boosted their hopes of reaching the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier with a commanding six-wicket victory over Scotland in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2 match in Kirtipur.
The win helped Nepal climb to fifth place in the CWC League 2 standings and maintain momentum in the race for a top-four finish, which guarantees qualification for the next stage of the World Cup pathway, according to the ICC.
After winning the toss, Scotland opted to bat first but struggled against Nepal's disciplined bowling attack. Left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi starred with figures of 4/32, while leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane claimed 3/47 as the visitors were bowled out for 194.
Brandon McMullen provided the lone aggressive counterattack for Scotland with a rapid 73 off 44 balls, while Michael English contributed 51. However, regular wickets prevented Scotland from building substantial partnerships.
Nepal made an attacking start in reply as Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh added 58 runs in only 6.3 overs. Scotland briefly fought back with quick wickets, but Ishan Pandey and captain Rohit Paudel steadied the chase with a decisive 104-run partnership.
Pandey struck a composed 55, while Paudel remained unbeaten on 74 to guide the hosts home comfortably. Mark Watt picked up two late wickets, but Nepal sealed the target with six wickets in hand.
The victory continued Nepal's impressive recent run in international cricket following their encouraging campaign at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, where Dipendra Singh Airee had played a key role in securing the team's first World Cup win since 2014.
Nepal have also carried their strong form into the ongoing home tri-series involving Scotland, the USA and Oman. After opening the series with a defeat to Scotland, Nepal bounced back with victories against the USA and Scotland to register two wins from three matches.
Nepal will next face the USA on May 22 as they continue their push for a place in the 2027 Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Scotland really let that one slip. 194 was always going to be below par on that pitch. Brandon McMullen's 73 was fantastic, but you need partnerships in ODIs. Nepal's spinners were just too good - that's the difference between subcontinent conditions and what Scotland are used to.
Rohit Paudel is turning into a proper leader! 74* under pressure, that too against Scotland who are no pushovers. And Ishan Pandey with 55 - these young lads are taking Nepal cricket to new heights. As an Indian cricket fan, it makes me so happy to see our neighbors doing well. South Asian cricket is rising! 🏏
Honest opinion: Nepal are playing some really smart cricket now. Their spinners are world-class at this level. But their batting still has a tendency to collapse - they got away with it today but against stronger opposition, losing quick wickets can be costly. That 58-run opening stand was fun though. 🔥
This is what happens when you give consistent opportunities to associate nations! Nepal's rise has been steady - from T20 World Cup 2026 to now competing for a spot in the 2027 ODI World Cup qualifier. Absolutely thrilled for them. And that partnership between Pandey and Paudel? Pure class. 😍
Watching cricket from Kirtipur always feels special - the atmosphere must be electric. Nepal's spin trio of Rajbanshi, Lamichhane, and Pa
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