The ICC T20 World Cup delivered another unforgettable chapter as Nepal came agonisingly close to scripting one of the greatest upsets in tournament history, before England survived by just four runs in Mumbai. After shocks involving the Netherlands, USA, and other so-called minnows, the ICC T20 World Cup once again proved that reputation alone guarantees nothing on the global stage.
Nepal’s Dream Chase Nearly Topples England
Chasing 185, Nepal approached the task with fearless intent, embodying the spirit that has defined the ICC T20 World Cup so far. Kushal Bhurtel set the tone with an aggressive Powerplay, and when Dipendra Singh Airee walked in at 42 for 2, belief rippled through the stands.
Airee played one of the innings of the ICC T20 World Cup, combining innovation with calm authority. He took on England’s spinners, reverse-sweeping Adil Rashid and punishing Will Jacks to ensure the required rate never spiralled. Alongside captain Rohit Paudel, Airee stitched together an 82-run partnership that placed Nepal firmly in control and England under real pressure.
At 123 for 2 after 14 overs, the unthinkable felt possible. For a fleeting moment, the ICC T20 World Cup looked ready to crown another giant-killer.
Turning Point After Drinks Break
The game shifted dramatically after the drinks break, a recurring theme in this ICC T20 World Cup. Sam Curran dismissed Airee for a brilliant 44, breaking Nepal’s momentum. England tightened the screws immediately, conceding just two runs in the following over.
Paudel fought hard, scoring 39 before falling to an excellent catch by Phil Salt. With 46 needed off the final three overs, Nepal’s lower order carried the hopes of a nation in a gripping ICC T20 World Cup finale.
Curran Holds Nerve as England Escape
Lokesh Bam reignited the chase by smashing Jofra Archer for two sixes, leaving Nepal needing just 10 from the final over. The Wankhede crowd sensed history in this ICC T20 World Cup clash.
But Curran delivered under immense pressure, varying his pace and length to perfection. Nepal could manage only six runs, falling heartbreakingly short.
Earlier, England posted 184 for 6 thanks to a stabilising 71-run stand between Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell, with late fireworks from Will Jacks. England survived, but the ICC T20 World Cup sent a clear message again: the giants bleed, and the underdogs are fearless.
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