Nepal’s dream run at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, ended in the quarter-finals, losing India by 23 runs.
Chasing a target of 203 runs, Nepal were bowled out for 179 in 20 overs, despite a valiant effort from Dipendra Singh Airee, who scored 32 runs. Sandeep Jora and Kushal Malla also chipped in with 29 runs each, but it was not enough to prevent India from marching into the semi-finals. Rabi Bishnoi and Abesh Khan picked up three wickets each for India, while Arshdeep Singh and Sai Kishore took two and one wickets, respectively.

Earlier in the day, India had posted 202 runs for four wickets in their allotted 20 overs, with a century from Yashasbi Jaiswal. Jaiswal smashed 100 runs in just 49 balls, with the help of eight fours and seven sixes. Rinku Singh also contributed with a quickfire 37 not out, while Shivam Dubey and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad scored 25 runs each.
Dipendra Singh Airee took two wickets for Nepal, while Sompal Kami and Sandeep Lamichhane picked up one wicket each.
Despite the loss, Nepal’s performance at the Asian Games has been remarkable. It was the first time that Nepal had qualified for the cricket tournament at the Asian Games, and they made their presence felt by defeating Mongolia by 273 runs and Maldives by 138 runs in the group stage.
Nepal also had the opportunity to play against India for the first time in Twenty20 International cricket. India is currently ranked number one in the ICC T20I rankings, while Nepal is ranked 16th.