KATHMANDU: Nepal scored their lowest 94 runs’ score in the ICC World Cricket League Championship (fourth round) while facing a seven-wicket defeat against the hosts Netherlands at VRA Ground in Amstelveen today. Nepal’s lowest score was 167/10 against Scotland in their first round match that Nepal lost by nine wickets last year in July. Nepal put 94 runs being bowled out in 38.1 overs while the hosts completed the target in 16.5 overs losing only three wickets. The defeat is third in Europe for Nepal who had lost both matches against Scotland. Overall, Nepal lost five matches out of seven in the championship as they also had lost both matches against PNG in the second round before beating Namibia at the TU Stadium in Kirtipur in April in the third round. In today’s match, Nepali batsmen failed to put good show against discipline bowling of the opposition who invited the visitor to put runs on the board first. Opener Anil Mandal top scored 20 runs facing 39 balls, while Sharad Vesawkar, who faced 71 balls, was second highest scorer for Nepal with 14 runs. Tail-ender Sompal Kami (12 off 28) and opener Gyanendra Malla (11 off 12) were other batsmen to contribute in double digits. Skipper Paras Khadka got duck out by Timm van der Merwe who picked up three wickets giving away only 21 runs in eight overs. He also maintained a maiden over. Similarly, Michael Rippon also claimed three wickets as Nepal flopped in batting. Rippon , who maintained two maiden, conceded 21 runs in 9.1 overs . In reply, Wesley Barresi’s 33-ball 37 and Stephen Myburgh’s not out 33 runs off 41 balls were enough for the Dutch. Karan KC, Basant Regmi and Sagar Pun took a wicket each for Nepal. The second match between the sides will be played on Monday at the same venue. READ ALSO:

• Nepal post meagre 95-run target to Netherlands