HONG KONG—Nepal outclassed Papua New Guinea (PNG) by a staggering 85 runs, securing their place in the finals of the tri-nation T20 series. The Mission Road Ground witnessed a cricketing masterclass as PNG, chasing a formidable target of 199, fell apart under the relentless pressure of Nepal’s lethal bowling attack, managing only 113 runs in 16.1 overs.

The star of the match was none other than Nepal’s Kushal Bhurtel. Bhurtel demonstrated his batting prowess with a hard-fought 59 off 39 balls and decimated the PNG batting line-up with a remarkable bowling spell, taking 4 wickets for just 12 runs in his four overs. His performance was a testament to his emerging talent and a sight to behold for cricket enthusiasts.

Nepal opted to bat first after losing the toss, which proved to be a masterstroke. Openers Bhurtel and Sandeep Jora (56 off 26) laid the foundation with a crucial 87-run stand. Valuable contributions from the middle order, including cameos from Binod Bhandari, Bibek Yadav, Gulshan Jha, and Lokesh Bam, ensured Nepal posted a daunting total of 198 on the board.

PNG’s chase never really got going. Openers Hiria Hiria and Tony Ura fell cheaply, and despite some resistance from Sese Baule, the lack of partnerships exposed the fragility of their batting line-up. Nepal’s bowlers, led by Bhurtel’s brilliance, were disciplined and clinical, stifling any hopes of a PNG comeback.

This resounding victory propels Nepal into the finals with an unblemished record of two wins from two matches. The cricketing world now holds its breath as the clash between PNG and Hong Kong looms, the outcome of which will decide who faces Nepal in the grand finale. The stage is set for a nail-biting conclusion to this exhilarating T20 tri-series.