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Nepal Eyes a Strong Finish in WCL2 Game Against Netherlands

The clash is to begin at 3:45 PM NST at the Forthill Cricket Ground in Dundee.

Kathmandu: In the scenic cricketing town of Dundee, Scotland, Nepal is set to play its final match of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 tri-series, comprising of Scotland and the Netherlands, on June 10. The team, fueled by a new sense of purpose under head coach Stuart Law, has shown up with intent, belief, and a performance arc that’s growing match by match.

From a record-breaking 297-run chase against hosts Scotland to a confident win over the Netherlands, the Rhinos have been building something special this series. Even in the narrow two-run loss in their third match — again, versus Scotland — Nepal managed to show that their fight isn’t just about the scoreboard but about a deeper cricketing maturity.

Now, with one final game remaining — a rematch against the Dutch side — Nepal is looking to close out their campaign on a high. The match, scheduled for 3:45 PM Nepal time at the Forthill Cricket Ground, holds more than just two points. It’s a chance to solidify the momentum they’ve been steadily gathering.

Nepal currently sits at 7th in the standings, with 10 points from 15 games. The Netherlands, on the other hand, is positioned second with 26 points from 22 matches. But recent performances have shown that the gap in numbers doesn’t necessarily reflect the competitive spirit on the field.

The squad, led by captain Rohit Kumar Paudel and vice-captain Dipendra Singh Airee, includes a promising mix of experience and youthful talent. From Karan KC’s clutch heroics to Aarif Sheikh’s steady middle-order anchoring, the team has repeatedly shown resilience. Players like Sompal Kami, Sandeep Lamichhane, and Gulshan Jha have all had standout moments in conditions that have tested both bat and ball.

While the road to the 2027 World Cup is long, this series has offered a glimpse into what the future could hold. Nepal isn’t just showing up to compete — they’re here to belong. And as the final whistle nears, one thing is certain: this team, with its heart and hustle, is playing more than just matches — it’s playing for a nation’s cricketing dreams.

Arun Katuwal

The writer is sub-editor at The Diplomat Nepal.

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