The Nepali national cricket team delivered a remarkable performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series in Scotland, winning three out of four matches.
Beating two of the strongest associate teams — Scotland and the Netherlands — on their home grounds is no small feat for Nepal. The team’s consistently high-level performances ensured that no match was one-sided, even in defeat.
Nepal narrowly lost one match against Scotland by just two runs, fighting until the very end and falling short of what could have been a historic win. With six points from this series, Nepal has climbed from the bottom of the table to 12 points from 16 matches.
The series marked the debut of Nepal’s new head coach, Australian Stuart Law. From the outset, Law stated that he disliked losing and aimed to instill a winning mentality in the squad. True to his word, Nepal showed no signs of weakness, even in defeat, earning praise for their determination.
Key contributions came from Karan KC’s magical finishes, Arif Sheikh’s composed innings, Nandan Yadav’s impressive debut, and Sandeep Lamichhane’s impactful return to international cricket.
A strong comeback on foreign soil
Nepal’s performance on foreign soil had been under scrutiny ahead of the Scotland tour.
But by overcoming tough conditions and mounting a spirited comeback, the team has signaled a promising new chapter in Nepali cricket.
Before the League 2 matches, Nepal’s core squad had undergone a rigorous training camp at home, followed by practice matches in England against county sides like Cardiff’s Newport, MCC, Glamorgan, and Gloucestershire. Nepal remained unbeaten in these matches, building momentum that carried into the League 2 fixtures.
In Scotland, they also played a warm-up one-dayer against the Scotland A team. CAN spokesperson Chhumbi Lama credited the team’s preparation at home and in the UK for the positive results. “From the PM Cup to the core camp and the preparation tour in London, along with the players’ hard work — it all contributed to this success,” he said.
Middle-order batting improvement
Batting, long a concern for Nepal, showed signs of improvement during the preparatory phase and continued in League 2. The middle order, often Nepal’s weak point, was particularly solid.
Arif Sheikh stood out with key innings that formed the foundation of Nepal’s victories. He was named player of the match in two of the team’s three wins, scoring career-best knocks of 78 and 84, and finishing as Nepal’s highest run-scorer in the series. He was ably supported by Bhim Sharki, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Gulshan Jha, while lower-order contributions from Sompal Kami and Karan KC provided depth.
Former coach Jagat Tamatta praised the team’s batting. “Conditions in Scotland are not in our favour, but our batting was impressive. Everyone contributed partnerships,” he said.
Significant wins against strong teams
Nepal’s victories over two of the strongest associate sides — Scotland and the Netherlands — were particularly meaningful. Nepal beat Scotland on their home ground and defeated the Netherlands in both encounters, a major achievement for the team.
“These wins are very important. Beating top associate teams is a big deal for us,” said Arif Sheikh.
Coach Tamatta added, “The result is what matters most. The players understand how crucial League 2 is. Beating strong teams boosts morale for upcoming matches.”
CAN’s Lama called the victories a positive outcome for the team and Nepali cricket overall. “Winning three away matches against strong League 2 sides like Scotland and the Netherlands is hugely encouraging,” he said.
Stuart Law’s impact
Since taking charge, Stuart Law has made an immediate impact on the team’s mindset. Known for transforming struggling sides, Law has instilled confidence and given young players the freedom to express themselves. Players have described him as calm and supportive, with Arif Sheikh noting that the team is enjoying playing under him.
Lama highlighted that while changes take time, the team is already seeing positive signs. He also pointed to assistant coach Gyanendra Malla’s role in helping the team, given his deep knowledge of the players and his experience as a former captain.
Areas for improvement
Despite the strong showing, challenges remain. Nepal’s opening pair and top order were inconsistent, losing early wickets in most matches. The death bowling also needs attention; against Scotland, Nepal conceded 122 runs in the last 10 overs.
The team must also make better use of its all-rounders. Gulshan Jha, for example, bowled sparingly, possibly due to a knee issue.
Addressing these areas could add further strength to Nepal’s bright cricketing future.
