By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Dec. 2: The Nepali men’s blind cricket team made history by progressing to the semi-finals of the 2024 Blind T20 World Cup in Pakistan. However, the team lost to the host and tournament favourites in the first semi-final on Sunday.
Pakistan, the only undefeated team in the tournament, defeated Nepal by 10 wickets in a dominant display of cricket.
Nepal had posted a target of 95 runs in the loss of seven wickets after batting for all 20 overs in the first inning.
Nepal had lost four wickets before the end of the first powerplay with none of the batsmen scoring in double figures. In 5.4 overs, Nepal was at 24/4.
However, it was all thanks to in-at-six Durgadatta Paudel that Nepal was able to reach 94 runs. Paudel scored 40 off 42 before departing as the sixth wicket leaving the team at 84/6.
In-at-seven, Ramesh Baniyan, also contributed greatly. Baniyan stayed not out at 17 off 30.
Mati Ullah was the highest wicket-taker for Pakistan as he bagged three. Similarly, Badar Munir claimed one.
On the other hand, the target which Nepal posted in 20 overs was chased successfully by Pakistan within their first powerplay. They scored 98 runs in 5.3 overs to win the match by 10 wickets.
Opener Babar Ali scored 32 off only 16 deliveries with six fours. His partner, Kamran Akhtar, did better as he completed an individual half-century and stayed not out at 63 off 21 (12 fours, 1 six).
Nepal could only use two bowlers – Sunil Magar and Bharat Thapa – in the 6-over span.
Nepal had reached the semi-finals with three wins (one awarded win against India) outperforming South Africa and Afghanistan. Bangladesh was the winner of the other semi-final; thus, Pakistan and Bangladesh will meet in the final.
Meanwhile, Nepal’s Cricket Association of the Blind has thanked the players and staff for their determination to help Nepal make history by reaching the semi-final stage of the World Cup.
“The association is hopeful that the government, as per the Sports Awards and Honours Directive, will award the players for their achievement and contribution,” read a statement by the association on Sunday.
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