Canada edge Nepal by 24 runs: ODI status hopes under pressure

BY A STAFF REPORTER, Kathmandu, Oct. 18: Nepal suffered a 24-run defeat against Canada in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 on Saturday, failing to chase a target of 257 at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman. 

The defeat dealt a setback to Nepal’s campaign to finish in the top six and retain their One-Day International (ODI) status.

Nepal, who had beaten Canada by 24 runs in their first meeting of the series and then defeated hosts Oman by 113 runs, were unable to repeat those performances against a 

Opted to bat first after winning the toss, Canada’s innings was built around a century from opener Yuvraj Samra, who scored 105 from 117 balls, striking 11 fours and 4 sixes.

Samra anchored the innings through the middle overs after Aaron Johnson contributed 36 off 53 balls. Samit Gohel made 17, while Harsh Thaker added a patient 34 from 57 deliveries. 

Captain Hamza Tariq then lifted the scoring rate with 30 off 26 balls, helping Canada build a competitive total despite wickets falling in the latter stages. Canada were eventually all out for 256 in 50 overs.