Despite defeat in their T20 World Cup opener, Nepal earn world cricket's plaudits - 'Clearly on right path'

Nepal earned massive praise from former cricket stars after their thrilling four-run loss to England in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Even though they didn’t win, many felt Nepal showed incredible fight and proved they are a rising team in world cricket.

Yuvraj Singh praised their spirit, writing, "Huge respect to Nepal. Took on one of the best teams in the world, stayed in the fight till the very last ball and showed what belief and heart can do. This is how teams grow, and champions rise. The cricketing world is watching!"



Ravichandran Ashwin also applauded them, saying, "Incredible from Nepal. They are surely among the best of the emerging cricketing nations. Huge potential and upside."

Irfan Pathan added, "So the finishing touches were missing, but Nepal are clearly on the right path. Great to see them put England under the pump," while Dale Steyn joked, "Nepal, I offer my services to you if you ever need 'em! Up, up and UP!"

England won the match by just four runs after scoring 184 runs. Jacob Bethell and captain Harry Brook played key roles with half-centuries, while Jos Buttler reached a major T20 World Cup milestone. For Nepal, bowlers like Dipendra Singh Airee and Nandan Yadav picked important wickets to keep England in check.

Chasing 185, Nepal started strongly but lost early wickets. Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee built a big partnership and kept Nepal in the game. However, both got out in quick succession, which hurt their chase. Lokesh Bam played a brilliant unbeaten knock at the end, but Nepal finished on 180/6, falling just four runs short.

Despite the loss, Nepal’s performance impressed the cricket world and showed they are a team to watch in the future.


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