Nepal thrash Hong Kong by 9 wickets to set up decider against Afghanistan in U-19 Qualifiers

Kathmandu / April 16: Nepal Under-19 registered a commanding nine-wicket victory over Hong Kong in the ACC U-19 World Cup Asia Qualifiers on Wednesday, keeping their unbeaten run intact and setting up a final against Afghanistan this Saturday.

After winning the toss and bowling first at the Mulpani Cricket Ground, Nepal bowled out Hong Kong for just 115 in 46.2 overs. Leg spinner Yuvraj Khatri continued his fine form, taking 4 wickets for just 18 runs from his 10 overs, dismantling the middle order and claiming the key wicket of top-scorer Shiv Mathur (63). Mathur’s knock came off 116 balls and included four boundaries and a six.

Chasing 116, Nepal made light work of the target, cruising to 118-1 in only 12.3 overs. Openers Niraj Yadav (23 off 12) and Sahil Patel (42 off 41) gave Nepal a flying start with a 55-run stand in the powerplay. Captain Naren Bhatta remained unbeaten on 39 off 23 balls.

With three straight wins, Nepal now face unbeaten side Afghanistan in a decisive fixture, with the winner advancing to the ICC U-19 World Cup.