In one of the most dramatic encounters of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, Scotland clinched a heart-pounding 2-run victory over Nepal at the Forthill Cricket Ground. Powered by a stunning century from skipper Richie Berrington and a blistering unbeaten 96 from Michael Leask, Scotland posted a massive 323/6. Despite a valiant chase from Nepal, they fell just short, bowled out for 321 in a full 50 overs.
This match—ODI 77 of 73 in the League 2 calendar—delivered high-octane cricket, showcasing brilliant batting and a nerve-wracking finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats till the last ball.
Scotland Set the Pace with 323/6
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Scotland put up an imposing total. Captain Richie Berrington led from the front with a commanding 102 off 114 deliveries, anchoring the innings with composure and class.
He was well supported by Charlie Tear, who scored a fluent 68 off 65 balls, helping Scotland recover from early pressure. But it was Michael Leask’s explosive unbeaten 96 off just 62 balls that took the game away from Nepal during the death overs. His knock included powerful boundaries and quick running between the wickets that lifted Scotland past the 320-mark.
From Nepal’s bowling side, Dipendra Singh Airee impressed with 2/37 in his 7 overs, while Karan KC claimed 2 wickets but was expensive, conceding 74 in 9 overs.
Nepal Fight Bravely in a Thrilling Chase
Nepal began their chase with solid intent. Bhim Sharki played a composed knock of 73 off 85 balls, anchoring the innings through the middle overs. He was joined by Dipendra Singh Airee, who added a quick 56 off 51, keeping the momentum alive.
But the game came alive with Sompal Kami’s explosive 67 off just 44 balls, as he launched a counterattack in the final overs. Needing 7 runs in the last over, Nepal looked in sight of victory.
However, Mackenzie Jones held his nerve, picking up 3/55 in his 9 overs, while Safyaan Sharif (2/38) and Michael Leask (2/48) also chipped in with key wickets at crucial junctures.
Nepal was eventually bowled out for 321 on the final ball of the innings—just 2 runs short of what would have been a sensational victory.
Key Performers
- Richie Berrington (SCO): 102 (114) – Anchored the innings with a captain’s knock
- Michael Leask (SCO): 96* (62) & 2/48 – Game-changing all-round performance
- Bhim Sharki (NEP): 73 (85) – Solid anchor in Nepal’s chase
- Sompal Kami (NEP): 67 (44) – Late fireworks that nearly pulled off the chase
- Mackenzie Jones (SCO): 3/55 – Broke Nepal’s backbone with key wickets
With this victory, Scotland continue their dominant run in the ICC CWC League 2, strengthening their path toward qualification for the next World Cup cycle. For Nepal, it’s a heartbreaking loss, but their spirited performance, especially with the bat, promises exciting times ahead.
Match Summary:
- Scotland: 323/6 (50 overs)
- Richie Berrington 102 (114), Michael Leask 96* (62), Charlie Tear 68 (65)
- Dipendra Singh Airee 2/37, Karan KC 2/74
- Nepal: 321 all out (50 overs)
- Bhim Sharki 73 (85), Sompal Kami 67 (44), Dipendra Singh Airee 56 (51)
- Mackenzie Jones 3/55, Michael Leask 2/48, Safyaan Sharif 2/38
- Result: Scotland won by 2 runs
- Venue: Forthill Cricket Ground
- Toss: Scotland won the toss and chose to bat
- Player of the Match: Michael Leask (SCO)
