Nepal ends 4,352-day T20 World Cup wait with thrilling win over Scotland
Nepal ended their 4,352-day wait for a T20 World Cup victory on Tuesday, February 17, defeating Scotland by seven wickets at Wankhede Stadium. The win marked Nepal’s first in the tournament since 2015, the longest gap between wins in T20 World Cup history, surpassing Ireland’s 2,770-day wait.
After a narrow four-run loss to England in their opener at the same stadium, Nepal came out determined. Chasing 171, they reached the target with four balls to spare, thanks to a fiery unbeaten 50 off 23 balls from Dipendra Singh Airee, who also holds the record for the fastest T20I fifty in just nine balls. Airee’s innings proved decisive in securing Nepal’s historic triumph.
“First of all, I would like to thank the fans. They came to India and to Mumbai and supported us a lot. Our confidence also increased… I am very happy,” said Airee.
“In the last World Cup, we didn’t win a single match. So, that’s why this win is very important for us. It is one of my best innings, especially while chasing,” he added.
Scotland sets a challenging target
Sent in to bat, Scotland posted 170 for 7. Opener Michael Jones led the charge with 71 off 45 balls, supported by George Munsey (27) and Brandon McMullen (25). Nepal’s pacer Sompal Kami took three crucial wickets for 25 runs, while Nandan Yadav claimed two more. Despite useful contributions from Richie Berrington, Tom Bruce, and Matthew Cross, Scotland’s middle and lower order couldn’t accelerate to a higher total.
Nepal’s steady chase
Chasing 171, Nepal looked in control at 74 without loss after nine overs, boosted by Kushal Bhurtel’s 43 off 35 balls. However, Michael Leask struck with three quick wickets, reducing Nepal to 98 for 3. Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh (33) steadied the innings before captain Rohit Paudel fell for 16 in the 13th over.
Dipendra Singh Airee then took charge, his unbeaten 50 complemented by Gulsan Jha’s 24* guiding Nepal to victory. Airee’s late assault, including two massive sixes off Leask, sealed the win. Nepal celebrated their long-awaited T20 World Cup victory with a lap of honour around Wankhede Stadium, bringing a historic end to their 11-year wait for success in the tournament.
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