The West Indies cricket team delivered a commanding performance against the Nepal national cricket team, securing a dominant nine-wicket victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The emphatic win confirmed West Indies’ qualification for the Super-8 stage from Group C.
With this result, the Caribbean side registered its third consecutive victory in the tournament, while Nepal bowed out after suffering its third defeat.
Nepal Struggle Despite Airee’s Fighting Fifty
After losing the toss, Nepal were asked to bat first and immediately faced a disciplined West Indies bowling attack. The Caribbean pacers maintained tight lines and applied consistent pressure throughout the innings.
Veteran all-rounder Jason Holder led the charge with the ball, claiming four wickets for just 27 runs. His spell dismantled Nepal’s middle order and prevented the batting side from building lasting partnerships.
Amid the collapse, Deependra Singh Airee stood firm and produced a resilient knock. He scored 58 runs off 47 balls, anchoring the innings when wickets fell at regular intervals. Later, Sompal Kami added a valuable 26 runs in the closing overs, helping Nepal post 133 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Although Nepal showed determination, the total appeared below par on a batting-friendly surface.
West Indies Dominate the Chase
West Indies approached the chase with confidence and clarity. Openers Brandon King and captain Shai Hope provided a steady start, ensuring there were no early setbacks.
King contributed 22 runs before departing, but Nepal failed to capitalise on that breakthrough. Hope then took control of the innings alongside Shimron Hetmyer.
The pair stitched together an unbeaten 91-run partnership that effectively sealed the contest. Hope remained not out on 61 from 44 deliveries, displaying composure and smart shot selection. Hetmyer accelerated when required and finished unbeaten on 46 off 32 balls.
West Indies comfortably reached the 134-run target in just 15.2 overs, losing only one wicket in the process.
Tournament Implications
The convincing victory strengthened the West Indies’ position as one of the form teams in the competition. Their third straight win officially secured a Super-8 berth from Group C and boosted team morale heading into the next stage.
Nepal, on the other hand, exited the tournament despite moments of promise. While the team displayed fighting spirit, inconsistency with both bat and ball ultimately proved costly.
With momentum firmly on their side, West Indies now shift focus to the Super-8 stage, aiming to continue their impressive campaign in the T20 World Cup.
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