Kathmandu, Dec 1: Nepal lost to Bangladesh by five wickets in their second match of the U-19 Asia Cup cricket tournament at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium today. With this loss, Nepal has now suffered two consecutive defeats in the tournament, having previously lost to Sri Lanka.

Chasing Nepal’s target of 142 runs, Bangladesh comfortably reached 143/5 in 28.4 overs. Opener Jabar Abrar top-scored with 59 runs off 65 balls, hitting five fours and four sixes. Captain Mohammad Hakim contributed 52 runs off 72 balls, including two fours and three sixes.

Nepal’s bowling was led by Yuvraj Khatri, who took four wickets, while Hemant Dhami claimed one.

Earlier, Nepal won the toss and chose to bat, managing 141 runs in 45.4 overs. Akash Tripathi was the top scorer for Nepal with 43 runs, while Uttam Thapa and Abhishek Tiwari added 29 runs each. None of the other batters managed to reach double figures.

Bangladesh’s bowlers Al Fahad, Mohammad Iqbal Hasan Emon, and Rizan Hossain took two wickets each, while three others chipped in with one wicket apiece.

With this win, Bangladesh secured their second consecutive victory, having defeated Afghanistan in their opening match. Nepal will face Afghanistan in their third and final group-stage match on Mangsir 18.