By a Staff Reporter
Kathmandu – Excitement is building as Nepal prepares to take on the host nation, Zimbabwe, in the inaugural match of the ICC World Cup Qualifier. The highly anticipated clash will kick off at 12:45 PM NST at the prestigious Harare Sports Club.
Rohit Paudel, a talented young Batting all-rounder, will lead the visiting team Nepal, while Craig Ervine will captain the hosts, Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe will step onto the field aiming for a winning start, but Nepal, who have been displaying exceptional performances lately, will be determined to secure a triumphant victory.
This encounter marks Nepal’s first-ever match against a Test Nation, a significant milestone for the cricketing nation. Currently ranked 15th in the ODI rankings, Nepal will be looking to challenge the 11th-ranked Zimbabwe team.
To date, Nepal has faced Zimbabwe thrice, but unfortunately, they have not emerged victorious on any occasion. The teams have met once in a List A match and twice in T20 I matches. Nepal will be eager to change the outcome this time around and secure their first win against Zimbabwe.
Weather conditions at the venue today appear to be clear, with no chance of rain, adding to the anticipation and ensuring an uninterrupted match. Cricket enthusiasts can catch the action live either on Star Sports or NETTV, as both networks will be broadcasting the game.
Nepal has been placed in Group ‘A’ alongside hosts Zimbabwe, West Indies, Netherlands, and America, making it a challenging group. Meanwhile, Group ‘B’ consists of Sri Lanka, Scotland, Ireland, Oman, and the UAE, promising some exciting encounters in the tournament.
Nepal’s Squad:
Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (Wicketkeeper), Gyanendra Malla, Rohit Poudel (Captain), Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Bhim Sharki, Pratish GC, Lalit Rajbanshi, Arjun Saud (Wicketkeeper), Kishore Mahato
