KATHMANDU, March 13: Nepal is playing against Papua New Guinea today in the final match of the triangular T2-0 I series in Hong Kong. The match started at Mong Kok.
After winning the toss, Nepal elected to field first, inviting Papua New Guinea to bat first in the match.
Due to rain, the match between Nepal and Hong Kong was postponed. Nepal secured their spot in the final by defeating Papua New Guinea by 85 runs in the previous match.
Nepal takes first wicket against Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea, who played two matches on the same day, defeated Hong Kong by 10 wickets. In their previous encounter, Nepal posted a formidable total of 198 runs batting first against Papua New Guinea.
Nepal's key batsman Kushal Bhurtel, who scored 59 runs and took 4 wickets, will be crucial for Nepal's success. Sandeep Jora who scored 56 runs in the previous match adds depth to the batting lineup. Nepal's batting lineup heavily relies on Bhurtel, with Lokesh Bam and Bibek Yadav also expected to perform consistently.
Captain Rohit Paudel's leadership and batting prowess will be pivotal in the final match. The team will bank on big hits, especially considering the small boundary.
Nepal will rely on the experience of bowler Karan KC, especially in the death overs where the team has struggled in the past.
Papua New Guinea will bolster their bowling attack with the return of key bowlers Kabua Morea and Alei Nao. Tony Ura and Sese Bau, who displayed excellent batting form in their previous match, will lead the batting lineup for Papua New Guinea.