Nepal Inches Away From Historic Win Against South Africa In T20 World Cup

Nepal narrowly missed securing a historic victory in the T20 World Cup 2024, falling short by just one run against South Africa at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent, on Saturday (June 15).

Needing two runs from the final ball to win, or one run to tie and force a Super Over, Nepal's hopes were dashed when Ghulsan Jha was run out at the non-striker's end. South Africa managed to hold on to their modest total of 115-7, clinching a thrilling match.

The Nepalese players and fans were heartbroken as they appeared poised for their first win against an ICC full member nation in 12 attempts. They needed 22 runs from the last 24 balls but faltered in the final moments.

With 18 runs required from 18 balls, Nepal lost three wickets for just one run within six balls. Spinner Tabraiz Shamsi claimed two of those wickets, shifting the momentum. Anrich Nortje further dented Nepal's chances in the 19th over.

In the last over, bowled by Ottneil Baartman, Gulshan Jha failed to score from the first two balls but managed a four through the off side, reducing the requirement to four runs from three balls.

Gulshan and Sompal Kami ran two runs, leaving Nepal needing two from two balls. The fifth ball was a dot ball, and Gulshan was run out on the final delivery, ending the match.

"We were very close and yet so far," said Nepal captain Rohit Paudel. "I think in crunch moments we did well and the way we fought was very good. If we can play top teams more regularly then next time we will be on the winning side."

Despite the loss, the cricket community praised Nepal for their performance. Harsha Bhogle posted on X, "Hold your heads high Nepal. That was South Africa you almost took down today. You have some of the most passionate fans and you let them believe. Hopefully bigger days are round the corner."

Alan Wilkins also shared his thoughts on X: "A wonderful game of cricket! A night that belonged to Nepal as they fell just short of their Cricketing Everest v South Africa. SA won by one run. Nepal have enhanced their reputation in the World of Cricket."

Several T20 league teams, including Rajasthan Royals and MI Cape Town, expressed their admiration for Nepal's effort against a top team like South Africa on social media.

The world is absolutely proud of the fight, @CricketNep ???????????????? pic.twitter.com/5Da3giRQeT

Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) June 15, 2024