Nepal put up a fighting total of 271 runs against tournament leaders United States in Match 89 of the ICC Cricket World Cup League Two at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on November 1, 2025. With USA chasing at a required run rate of 5.84, this encounter promises a thrilling finish as both teams battle for crucial points in the race for qualification.
Table of Contents
Nepal vs USA: Match Overview at a Glance
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 (2023-27) |
| Match Number | Match 89 |
| Venue | ICC Academy Ground, Dubai |
| Date | November 1, 2025 |
| Toss | USA won and elected to field |
| Nepal Total | 271/10 (49.5 overs) |
| USA Score | 78/2 (16.5 overs) |
| Required | 194 runs in 199 balls |
Nep vs USA: Nepal’s Batting Display Defies Expectations
After USA captain Monank Patel won the toss and opted to field first, Nepal’s batting unit delivered their most impressive performance in recent outings. The team, currently placed seventh with 11 losses in 18 matches, needed a strong showing to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Nepal’s batsmen constructed a competitive total of 271 runs before being dismissed in 49.5 overs. This total represents a significant improvement for a side that has struggled against today’s opponents, having lost three previous encounters against the Americans in this tournament cycle.
The innings showcased resilience from Nepal’s batting order, with contributions across the board helping them reach a defendable score on the Dubai surface. Wicketkeeper Aasif Sheikh, captain Rohit Paudel, and the explosive Kushal Bhurtel played crucial roles in posting this competitive total.
Learn more about cricket match strategies and tournament formats to understand how teams approach crucial league matches.
USA’s Chase: Steady Start Despite Early Setbacks
Chasing 272 for victory, the United States—who sit atop the League Two table with only six losses in 22 matches—began their pursuit with intent. However, Nepal’s bowling attack struck twice early to reduce USA to 78/2 after 16.5 overs.
Captain Monank Patel (11 runs off 13 balls) and Saiteja Mukkamalla (7 runs off 14 balls) are currently at the crease, navigating Nepal’s spin threat carefully. The required run rate stands at 5.84 runs per over, a manageable target for a team of USA’s caliber, but Nepal’s bowlers are keeping the pressure on.
Nepal’s Bowling Brilliance
Star spinner Sandeep Lamichhane has been economical, conceding just 7 runs while claiming one crucial wicket in his three overs. The legendary leg-spinner’s ability to control the middle overs could prove decisive in this encounter. Left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi has supported well, though his figures of 0/22 in four overs reflect USA’s intent to score steadily.
With 194 runs still required from 199 balls, both teams know the next 10 overs will define this contest. USA possess batting depth, but Nepal’s spin duo of Lamichhane and Rajbanshi can exploit Dubai’s conditions to create pressure.
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Tournament Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher
This match carries enormous significance for both teams. USA are looking to consolidate their position at the summit and finish the tournament strongly, having already demonstrated consistency with 16 wins from 22 matches.
Nepal, meanwhile, are fighting for survival. Sitting seventh in an eight-team competition where only the top four qualify directly, every point matters. Their underwhelming campaign has included 11 losses, making victories against top-ranked opponents like USA essential.
The ICC Cricket World Cup League Two serves as the primary pathway to the ODI World Cup, making these matches more than just bilateral contests—they’re qualification battles where futures are decided.
Playing XIs: Star Power on Display
United States: Smit Patel (WK), Monank Patel (C), Saiteja Mukkamalla, Shayan Jahangir, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Milind Kumar, Shubham Ranjane, Harmeet Singh, Jasdeep Singh, Saurabh Netravalkar, Nosthush Kenjige
Nepal: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (WK), Bhim Sharki, Rohit Paudel (C), Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current score in Nepal vs USA Match 89?
Nepal posted a competitive total of 271/10 in 49.5 overs batting first. In response, USA are currently 78/2 after 16.5 overs, needing 194 more runs from 199 balls at a required run rate of 5.84 to win this ICC Cricket World Cup League Two encounter.
Where is Nepal vs USA Match 89 being played?
The match is taking place at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on November 1, 2025. This venue regularly hosts ICC Cricket World Cup League Two matches and provides excellent facilities for international cricket.
