It was a historic day for Nepal cricket as they became the 13th nation to gain ODI status. Nepal defeated PNG by 6 wickets in today’s ICC World Cup qualifiers in a playoff match. Hong Kong, Nepal, and PNG were fighting for one spot to become the latest ODI team. Also, Netherlands defeated Hong Kong in another playoff match.
Nepal crushed PNG by six wickets at Old Harris Stadium, Harare. Paras Khadka won the toss and elected to field first. It was an impressive bowling performance by Nepal bowlers who restricted PNG to just 114 in 27.2 overs. Young Nepal spinner Lamichanne and DS Airee picked 4 wickets each.
Congratulations to Nepal! 🇳🇵
They will be an ODI team following #CWCQ after it was confirmed they will face Netherlands in the 7th place play-off! pic.twitter.com/t4zidcO4j1
— ICC (@ICC) March 15, 2018
While chasing, Nepal lost early wickets of Malla and Sah at the score of 13 runs. DS Airee remained not out on 50 and Sheikh scored 26 important runs. Nepal chased down the target with 27 overs to spare.
What a pride moment for all Nepali today. Nepal to be tagged as ODI Nation. Thank you for the real heroes who played really hard and those involved officials who helped us with limited resources, you are truly our ambassadors as always. Congratulations all !
— Bhawana Ghimire (@BhawanaCAN) March 15, 2018
Nepal Cricket team qualified for the 2014 T20 World Cup and was knocked out in the group stage. It is a big achievement for Khadka led side who could not perform well in the group stages of ICC World Cup 2018 qualifiers in Zimbabwe. They defeated Hong Kong during their final league match and gave Afghanistan of reaching the Super Six stage.
In the other match, Netherlands defeated Hong Kong. Netherlands made 174 runs and bowled out Hong Kong for 130 thus helping Nepal to earn the ODI Status. Afghanistan and Irleand became the 11th, 12th nation to become ODI nations. Both associate nations earned test status in 2017. Nepal will earn the ODI Status from today till the ICC World Cup 2022 qualifiers. Paras Khadka led side has lots of talent in their side and the ODI Status will help them to perform well at the highest level.
To the well wishers of Nepal Cricket : Its the “Result” of Years of “Hard Work” ! Years of “Patience” ! Hard work of many “Legends” and here we are now. A big proud day for all the people of Nepal🇳🇵What a beautiful journey so far. Together its Possible. Nepal – An ODI Nation ! pic.twitter.com/Vvbp1go5yq
— Sandeep Lamichhane (@Sandeep25) March 15, 2018
