Sompal Removes Jones and McMullen in the Same Over
Men's T20 World Cup, Group C, Mumbai
Scotland 170-7 (20 overs): Jones 71 (45); Sompal 3-25
Nepal 171-3 (19.2 overs): Airee 50* (23); Leask 3-30
Scotland's T20 World Cup campaign concluded on a disappointing note as Nepal successfully chased down a target of 170 in an exhilarating match at the Wankhede Stadium, securing their first victory at this tournament since 2014.
Dipendra Singh Airee emerged as the standout performer for Nepal, finishing unbeaten with a half-century off just 23 balls.
After being put into bat, Richie Berrington's team appeared set to post a competitive total, largely due to Michael Jones' fluent 71 runs. However, Scotland experienced a dramatic collapse from 132-1 to 162-7, losing momentum and ultimately finishing at 170-7.
On a batting-friendly surface, Nepal reached the target comfortably with four balls remaining.
Neither team was in contention for a Super 8 spot, with West Indies and England advancing from Group C. Nevertheless, Nepal managed to overcome some past challenges following their narrow last-ball defeat by England in their opening match.
Scotland, who were late additions to the tournament after Bangladesh's withdrawal, also ended the group stage with one win from four matches.
T20 World Cup: Nepal Complete Thrilling Victory Over Scotland - Reaction
For additional information, see Men's T20 World Cup tables, top run-scorers & wicket-takers, and Men's T20 World Cup 2026 - results & fixtures.
Kami and Airee Shine Despite Jones and Leask Efforts
George Munsey, typically a key contributor at the top of Scotland's batting order, struggled to make an impact, scoring 27 runs from 29 balls.
In contrast, Michael Jones displayed excellent form, skillfully finding gaps on the off-side and striking powerfully down the ground.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically when Sompal Kami dismissed both Jones and Brandon McMullen (25) in the same over.
Richie Berrington (10) was the only other Scottish batter to reach double figures as Tom Bruce, Matthew Cross, and Leask were dismissed in quick succession.
Nepal's bowlers effectively utilized pace and off-spin variations during the death overs, with Sompal Kami particularly impressive, finishing with figures of 3-25.
Mark Watt struck the final ball of Scotland's innings for six, providing a late boost to their total. Yet, under the lights on a good pitch, their score seemed at least 10 runs short of a winning target.
Nepal's Chase Fueled by Airee's Brilliance and Support from Jha
In response, Nepal reached 56 runs without loss after the powerplay, aided by some fortunate moments.
Brad Currie dropped a difficult catch off his own bowling when Kushal Bhurtel was on strike, while Brad Wheal hit the stumps without dislodging the bails. Additionally, wicketkeeper Matthew Cross failed to hold a leg-side catch from Aasif Sheikh off Currie's bowling.
Bhurtel (43) and Sheikh (33) were both dismissed by the persistent Leask as Scotland mounted a fightback. When Leask also removed captain Rohit Paudel, Nepal found themselves under pressure.
Following Paudel's dismissal, Gulshan Jha joined Dipendra Singh Airee at the crease in the 14th over. Airee struck three consecutive sixes off Olly Davidson and then Leask, adding another dramatic twist to the match.
Airee's quick hands and swift running formed the foundation of Nepal's successful chase. He rotated the strike skillfully and found boundaries when needed, leaving Nepal requiring five runs from six balls.
After failing to score 10 runs in the final over during their loss to England, Jha confidently struck Brad Wheal for four through mid-wicket, sealing a memorable victory for the team affectionately known as the Cardiac Kids.
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