Bhandari powers Nepal to six-run win over Malaysia

KATHMANDU: Nepal's wicket-keeper batsman Binod Bhandari scored a brisk half-century to propel his team to secure a six-run victory over the hosts Malaysia on Sunday.

Nepal posted a challenging total 173/6 before restricting the hosts 167/7 to register a second successive win at Kinrara Academy Oval in Kuala Lumpur, after winning a toss today.

Bhandari remained not out 51 (25) studded with three fours and five massive sixes. Veteran batsman Sarad Vesawkar hit 40 (28) including four fours and two sixes.

Malaysia's Fitri Sham was the pick of the bowlers with 3-0-26-3.

In reply, Malaysia top order laid the foundation with the opening stand of 75 runs before Avinash Bohara broke the partnership by removing Virandeep Singh caught behind for run-a-ball 23.

Sayed Aziz hit 50 (37) with seven fours and a maximum but to no avail.

Nepal's spearhead Sompal Kami and leggie Sandeep Lamichhane took two wickets each. Likewise, other bowlers Karan KC, Avinash Bohara and skipper Khadka chipped in with a wicket each.