Nepal’s victory over MCC: Match summed up in four key moments

Onlinekhabar Wednesday, July 20, 2016

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Kathmandu, July 20

Nepal’s national cricket squad, which is on its UK tour, defeated hosts Marylebone Cricket Club by 41 runs in the one-off 50 over match played on Tuesday.

The match, organised to commemorate the bicentenary of Nepal-UK friendship, saw thousands of spectators, most of them Nepalis living in the UK, cheer the tourists to victory. However, the victory was not easy. Nepal’s batting faltered yet again, and it was up to the bowlers to defend a modest target of 218.

Here we look at four defining moments of the match:

1.

Adair’s dismissal

MCC opener George Adair looked dangerous in his innings as he completed his century, even when wickets were tumbling at the other end. MCC were still in contention when he was playing on 100, but his departure when the score was 169, made it impossible for the home side to comeback to the game.

2.

Paras Khadka’s long walk to the pavillion

Nepal rely heavily on Paras Khadka’s bat when other batsmen fail to deliver. He comes in with a cool head, assesses the situation, and plays his shots. But yesterday, Paras, who was in good form, could not capitalise on it. His dismissal meant Nepal made at least 30-40 runs less than what could have been possible on the Lord’s pitch.

3.

Basanta’s Innings

While Nepal’s veteran spinner Basanta Regmi picked up dangerman Adair who completed his century, earlier during Nepal’s innings, he made sure Nepal played the allotted 50 overs. His 42-run partnership with Sompal Kami was what made the difference at the end, especially considering the fact that Nepal won the match by 41 runs. Kami was out on 20 with two balls to go.

4.

The last ball of the MCC innings

They say that in cricket, the game is not over until the last ball is bowled. Regmi to Senneck, and what’s more music to a bowler’s ears than the sound of rattling stumps!