September 4, 2023 – In a rain-affected encounter at the Asia Cricket Cup 2023, India displayed their dominance over Nepal, securing a comfortable win on Monday. Despite Nepal’s spirited efforts, India emerged victorious in a contest marred by intermittent rain showers.
Nepal, playing their maiden international game against India in the Asia Cup, exhibited remarkable promise and resilience. Starting their innings with a solid half-century partnership, Nepal’s openers navigated the tricky conditions caused by India’s spinners and the rain delays. Aasif Sheikh’s impressive half-century at the top of the order provided a solid foundation, with valuable contributions from his teammates.
India’s fielding woes, including three dropped catches early in the innings, gave Nepal a lifeline. Nevertheless, credit must be given to Nepal’s openers for capitalizing on these opportunities and consistently finding the boundary, exerting pressure on the Indian bowlers. India’s bowlers eventually mounted a comeback, reducing Nepal to 144/6. However, Sompal Kami’s resilient 48 off just 56 balls propelled Nepal’s total past the 200-run mark, offering their bowlers a fighting chance.
The early stages of the chase saw Nepal’s Karan KC impressively troubling Indian skipper Rohit Sharma with some probing deliveries. Despite surviving an LBW review, India faced an early scare. Karan continued to maintain pressure even after a rain interruption. Still, Rohit Sharma eventually found his rhythm and unleashed an array of shots, building confidence alongside Shubman Gill.
The revised target of 145 runs in 23 overs proved to be well within India’s reach, as Rohit Sharma and Gill’s partnership blossomed. With Rohit’s controlled aggression and Gill’s calculated approach, India comfortably secured their spot in the Super 4s stage.
On the bowling front, Ravindra Jadeja played a pivotal role for India, claiming a three-wicket haul, while Mohammed Siraj also made valuable contributions. Kuldeep Yadav maintained a tight line and length, conceding only 34 runs in his ten-over spell. Hardik Pandya, serving as the first-change bowler, proved to be handy.
Looking ahead, India is scheduled to face arch-rivals Pakistan on September 10, followed by encounters against the top two teams from Group B. As they move forward in the Asia Cup 2023, India aims to maintain their winning momentum and clinch the coveted trophy once again.
