Kathmandu, Feb 8: Nepal narrowly lost to England by four runs in their opening match of the ICC T20 World Cup, chasing a challenging target at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India, on Monday.

Batting first, England posted a competitive total of 184 runs, thanks to strong performances from their middle order. Jacob Bethell top-scored for England with 55 runs off 35 balls, hitting four fours and one six. Harry Brook added 53 runs from 32 balls, including four fours and three sixes. Will Jacks remained unbeaten on 39, while Jos Buttler contributed 26 runs.

In reply, Nepal fought hard but fell just short, finishing on 180 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Dipendra Singh Airi led the chase with a crucial 44 runs, while Rohit Poudel scored 39 and Kusal Bhurtel added 29 runs. Lokesh Bam remained unbeaten on 39, keeping Nepal in the contest until the final moments.

On the bowling front, England’s Liam Dawson picked up two wickets, while Sam Curran, Jofra Archer, Luke Wood, and Will Jacks claimed one wicket each.

For Nepal, Dipendra Singh Airi and Nandan Yadav took two wickets apiece, while Sandeep Lamichhane and Sher Malla picked up one wicket each.

Despite the narrow loss, Nepal’s strong performance against a top-ranked side drew praise and signaled a confident start to their T20 World Cup campaign.