Aasif Sheikh’s Quickfire Start Ends Early Against Scotland

Nepal’s chase against Scotland in the ICC World Cup League 2 took an early hit despite a confident start from the opening pair, as both openers fell in quick succession after laying a solid platform.

Chasing a target of 195, Nepal looked in control during the opening overs with Aasif Sheikh and Kushal Bhurtel taking on the Scottish bowling attack aggressively. The duo added 58 runs for the first wicket and gave Nepal the kind of start the team desperately needed in a crucial fixture of the tournament.

Aasif appeared particularly dangerous before his innings was cut short by a run-out. He scored 29 runs off just 17 deliveries, striking three boundaries and two sixes during an entertaining knock that kept the pressure on Scotland early in the innings.

Soon after, Kushal Bhurtel also returned to the pavilion, trapping Nepal in a difficult phase after the strong opening partnership. Bhurtel was dismissed lbw by Brandon McMullen after making 28 runs from 27 balls.

Nepal rebuilding after strong opening stand

With both openers back in the dugout, captain Rohit Paudel and Ishan Pandey have been tasked with rebuilding the innings and keeping Nepal’s chase on track.

At the time of writing, Nepal were 61 for 2 after nine overs, still requiring steady partnerships to chase down the 195-run target against a confident Scottish side.