The Nepal cricket team, still reeling from their heartbreaking one-run defeat to South Africa, faces another significant challenge as they prepare to take on Bangladesh on June 16th. Despite the narrow loss, which could have marked a historic win in Nepal’s cricket history, the team’s dream of defeating a Test nation remains alive. This match against Bangladesh presents their last opportunity in the World Cup to achieve this elusive victory.
For Bangladesh, the situation is somewhat more secure. They are almost guaranteed a spot in the Super 8 stage unless they suffer a substantial defeat to Nepal and the Netherlands manages a significant win against Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, Bangladesh cannot afford to underestimate Nepal, as any lapse in performance could jeopardize their advancement. Although the net run rate (NRR) gap between Bangladesh and the Netherlands is substantial, cricket is a game of uncertainties.
This isn’t the first time Nepal is meeting Bangladesh on the world stage. The two teams previously faced off in the 2014 T20 World Cup held in Bangladesh, where the host nation emerged victorious, advancing to the next round. That defeat was Nepal’s only loss in the 2014 World Cup. Now, a decade later, the teams meet again, each with distinct objectives: Bangladesh aiming to secure their progression, while Nepal is driven by the hope of their first-ever victory against a Test nation. A win against Bangladesh could provide a much-needed morale boost for Nepal fans still recovering from the close defeat to South Africa.
Key Battles to Watch
1. Litton Das vs Sandeep Lamichhane
Litton Das, a premier batsman in the Bangladesh lineup, will be tested by Nepal’s ace spinner, Sandeep Lamichhane. Litton has struggled against spinners in this World Cup, with a low average of 6.67 and a strike rate of 80 across three innings. Sandeep, who made a strong comeback for Nepal in the match against South Africa, will look to exploit this weakness. The duel between Litton and Sandeep will be a focal point of the match, determining how Bangladesh’s innings unfolds.
2. Aasif Sheikh vs Shakib Al Hasan
Nepal’s Aasif Sheikh faces a tough challenge in Bangladesh’s legendary left-arm spinner, Shakib Al Hasan. Aasif has historically struggled against left-arm spin, often falling prey to LBWs or edges to the keeper or slips. Shakib, known for his accuracy and ability to exploit batsmen’s weaknesses, might be brought in early to target Aasif. This matchup will be crucial in setting the tone for Nepal’s innings.
3. Towhid Hridoy vs Dipendra Singh Airee
Towhid Hridoy, a rising star in Bangladesh’s middle order, is known for his boundary-hitting prowess, boasting an average of 30 and a strike rate of 130 in T20Is. However, he struggles with rotating the strike and against fuller length deliveries on the stumps. Dipendra Singh Airee, with his knack for bowling wicket-to-wicket, will aim to capitalize on Towhid’s weaknesses. This battle could be decisive in the middle overs, either consolidating Bangladesh’s position or giving Nepal crucial breakthroughs.
For Nepali pacer Sompal Kami, this match carries a sense of nostalgia as he plays against Bangladesh for the second time in a World Cup. After the commendable performance against South Africa, every fan hopes Nepal can pull off a victory against Bangladesh. The players, too, are eager to give their best in this last match of the World Cup, aiming to secure their first victory against a Test nation.
Cricket enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting and high-stakes match, filled with intense battles and significant implications for both teams. The action kicks off at 5:15 AM, promising a thrilling encounter between Nepal and Bangladesh. Will Nepal finally achieve their dream of defeating a Test nation, or will Bangladesh secure their spot in the Super 8 stage? Tune in to find out.
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