England survived a major scare against Nepal in the T20 World Cup, winning by just four runs after a dramatic final over. Chasing 185, Nepal needed 10 runs off the last over bowled by Sam Curran, who held his nerve as his teammates had wobbled under pressure from a resolute Nepalese batting line-up.
Nepal's chase was built on a brilliant partnership between captain Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee, who combined for nine overs of aggressive batting. Adil Rashid suffered his worst performance in 28 T20s, conceding 14 runs per over across three wicketless spells. Airee, who holds the record for the fastest T20I fifty, smashed three sixes off Rashid. After both fell in quick succession, Lokesh Bam reignited the chase with a thrilling late onslaught, but Curran held his nerve to restrict Nepal to 181 for nine.
Earlier, England's innings stumbled early after losing openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler within the first four overs, and Tom Banton soon after. Half-centuries from Jacob Bethell (62) and Harry Brook (57) stabilised the innings with a 71-run stand off 45 balls, before Will Jacks provided late impetus with a quickfire cameo. Nepal's Sandeep Lamichhane was the standout bowler, taking two wickets while conceding just 23 runs in four overs.
Nepal, appearing in their third T20 World Cup, have now not won a match since their debut tournament but impressed with their spirited performance. England, seeking to recover from a difficult winter, will take confidence from the narrow escape as they continue their campaign.
