Dubai, UAE – Nepal faced their second consecutive setback in the ACC U-19 Asia Cup after suffering a 73-run defeat against Afghanistan on Sunday. This crucial victory cemented Afghanistan’s position in the tournament, securing them two points from two matches. However, Nepal must be more secure, losing its partners and remaining without points.

Nepal’s Batting Collapses Despite Arjun Kamal’s Heroics

Chasing Afghanistan’s challenging target of 262 runs, Nepal’s batting lineup crumbled, scoring only 188 runs in 40.1 overs. Despite Arjun Kumal’s valiant effort of 91 runs from 108 balls, including 13 boundaries, victory remained elusive. Captain Dev Khanal (24 runs), Gulshan Jha (17 runs), Deepak Bohra (15 runs), and Deepesh Kandel (11 runs) provided some support, but their contributions were insufficient.

A noteworthy highlight was the 50-run partnership between Arjun and Subash Bhandari (8 runs) for the eighth wicket, offering a glimmer of hope. However, Afghanistan’s bowlers proved too strong, dismantling Nepal’s batting order. Faridun Daudzai and Nasir Khan Marufakhi were the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets each. Mohammad Younis Zadran, Khalil Ahmed, and Wahidullah Zadran also contributed with wickets, ensuring Nepal’s downfall.

Afghanistan Posts Strong Total Led by Jamshaid Zadran

After being sent into bat, Afghanistan averaged 261 runs, losing all their wickets in 49.3 overs. Jamshaid Zadran starred for Afghanistan, smashing 106 runs from 153 balls, including eight boundaries, before retiring hurt due to leg problems. Numan Shah Agha (60 runs), Rahimullah Jurmati (39 runs), Wafiullah Tarakhi (27 runs), Khalil Ahmed (21 runs), and Khalid Taniwal (15 runs) made notable contributions to the score.

Jamshaid’s partnerships were crucial, sharing a 97-run stand with Agha for the fifth wicket and an 81-run partnership with Jurmati for the fourth wicket. Nepal’s bowlers struggled to contain Afghanistan’s batting, with Hemant Dhami, Gulshan Jha, and Subash Bhandari claiming two wickets each. Dipesh Kandel and Akash Chand also managed to pick up one wicket each.