Nepal Starts with a Victory by Defeating Singapore

**Nepal Makes Triumphant Start in ACC U-16 East Zone Cup**

Nepal kicked off their campaign in the ACC U-16 East Zone Cup cricket tournament with a victory. Chasing a modest target of 139, Nepal achieved the total in 33.3 overs with a loss of four wickets, securing a convincing six-wicket win.

The match was held at the YSD UKM Oval in Malaysia, where Singapore, opting to bat first after winning the toss, was bowled out for 138 runs in 36.1 overs.

In response, Nepal effortlessly reached their target. Opener Prasiddha Jaisi guided the chase with an unbeaten 55 runs. Raunak Srivastav contributed 40 runs, while Suryanshu Koirala was forced to retire hurt on 9 runs. Shubham Khanal remained not out with 9 runs.

For Singapore, captain Rejan Naik scored a half-century with 53 runs, Aahan Bhuthanadam added 38 runs, while Rohan Austin Arun and Pranad Ehan Meduri made 11 and 12 runs respectively.

Nepal’s bowling attack was led by Bipin Sharma, who took four wickets, while Sachin Bhatt claimed three. Abhay Yadav and Shubham Khanal picked up a wicket each.

The tournament, which began today, features 10 teams, divided into two groups. Group ‘A’ includes Nepal, Singapore, Indonesia, Bhutan, and Japan. Group ‘B’ comprises hosts Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Maldives, Thailand, and Myanmar.

Nepal has historically dominated this tournament, having won all previous editions. They are set to face Japan on Tuesday and Indonesia next Sunday. Nepal’s final group stage match will be against Bhutan.

The top two teams from each group advance to the semifinals, with the final slated for July 5 (21st Asar).