In what turned out to be a high-scoring and tense encounter at the ICCA Dubai, the USA defeated Nepal by 4 wickets in the 88th Match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2.
The match, held on November 1, 2025, saw Nepal post a competitive total; however, a disciplined and powerful batting performance from the USA, led by Saiteja Mukkamalla and Milind Kumar, enabled the table-toppers to chase down the target with six balls to spare. This loss represents a significant setback for Nepal’s campaign, marking their third consecutive defeat in this tri-series and casting further doubt on their aspirations for a top-four finish.
Scorecard Summary
Nepal’s Innings: 271 all out (49.5 overs) Put in to bat, Nepal’s innings unfolded as a narrative of recovery. After a shaky start that saw opener Aasif Sheikh dismissed for just 2 runs, the middle order stepped up. Kushal Bhurtel (47) and Bhim Sharki (43) provided stability, but it was Dipendra Singh Airee who anchored the innings with a commendable 75 runs off 67 balls. Just as the run rate began to decline, Karan KC delivered a remarkable cameo, scoring 49 runs from only 31 balls (including 2 fours and 3 sixes) to propel Nepal to a respectable total of 271. For the USA, left-arm spinner Harmeet Singh was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for just 33 runs in his 10 overs. Saurabh Netravalkar and Nosthush Kenjige also contributed with two wickets each.
USA’s Innings: 273/6 (49 overs) Chasing a target of 272, the USA’s response was anchored by two exceptional half-centuries. After losing a few early wickets, Saiteja Mukkamalla (75 off 101) and Milind Kumar (70 off 66) formed a match-defining partnership. They exhibited patience and capitalized on loose deliveries, effectively taking control of the game. Shayan Jahangir also provided a solid start with 36 runs. Despite a late surge of wickets from Nepal’s star bowler Sandeep Lamichhane (3 for 53), the USA had established too strong a foundation. Harmeet Singh, the standout bowler, fittingly concluded the match with a series of boundaries.
Match Analysis: Where It Was Won and Lost
Nepal will regret their inability to break the partnership between Mukkamalla and Kumar. While Lamichhane was effective, the remainder of the bowling attack struggled to maintain pressure or secure crucial breakthroughs during the middle overs. Missed opportunities and several misfields further compounded their difficulties. Conversely, the USA executed a clinically professional performance. Their bowlers, led by Harmeet Singh’s restrictive spell, limited Nepal to a total that was competitive but not insurmountable. Their batsmen approached the chase with a clear strategy, identifying Lamichhane as the primary threat and ensuring they capitalized on the other bowlers.
The Way Forward in ICC WCL 2
This result carries significant implications for both teams in the ICC World Cricket League 2, which serves as the pathway to the 2027 World Cup Qualifier.
For the USA: This victory solidifies their position at the top of the 8-team table. With 34 points from 23 matches, they are comfortably placed and appear almost certain to secure one of the top-four spots that guarantee direct qualification for the next stage.
For Nepal: The outlook is bleak. This marks their 12th loss in 19 matches, leaving them in 7th place with only 12 points. Their prospects for a top-four finish are rapidly diminishing. The team finds itself in a precarious situation and will need to win nearly all of their remaining matches to retain even a slim chance. Their immediate focus must be to regroup and devise a strategy to secure victory in their final tour match against the UAE.
