Zia Ur Rehman Akbar's five-wicket haul and Tarik Stanikzai's half century were instrumental in Afghanistan's victory over Nepal. The Nepali team had left for India on December 30 to prepare for the world cup.
On Monday, Nepal was bundled out for 149 runs in 43.1 overs while chasing 233 runs target. Dipendra Singh scored 42 runs facing 40 balls and Shankar Rana contributed 39 runs facing 77 balls. Kushal Bhurtel added 23 runs off 28 balls.
Zia Ur of Afghanistan bagged five wickets giving away only 16 runs in his eight-over spell and maintained four maiden overs, while Karim Janat and Zahir Pakteen claimed two wickets each to restrict Nepal on the low score.
Earlier, opting to bat first, Afghanistan put 232 runs losing eight wickets in allotted 45 overs as Tariq scored 64 runs off 69 balls and Naveed Obaid contributed 44 runs facing only 33 balls. Ikram Khail remained not out on 42 runs off 43 balls and Ihsanullah Janat added 37 runs playing 69 balls.
Aarif Sheikh picked up highest three wickets for Nepal, while Sandeep Lamichhane pocketed two and Sushil Kandel and Prem Tamang claimed a wicket each for Nepal.
The second practice match between the two countries will be played on Wednesday at the same venue.
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