England edge Nepal in last-ball thriller at Mumbai, T20 World Cup opener
England edge Nepal in last-ball thriller at Mumbai, T20 World Cup opener
England survive a nerve-wracking Nepal chase to win by four runs in a dramatic T20 World Cup opener at the Wankhede, with Bethell and Brook shining.
England posted a competitive 184 for seven as Bethell struck 55 off 35 balls and Brook added 53 off 32, guiding the innings after a cautious start when Salt fell early. The chase began with Nepal’s bowlers executing smart lines, but England’s middle-overs acceleration helped them set a challenging target. The early loss of Kiran Salt in the opening over did not derail their momentum, and Bethell and Brook stitched a valuable partnership that laid the foundation for a defendable total. By the time the two were at the crease, the scoreboard showed ascent with boundaries punctuating the over-rate and the tempo gradually lifting.
Nepal’s response started briskly, with their openers showing intent and the chase looking within reach as the required rate hovered around ten an over late. A brief period of hope for Nepal saw them rallying through a useful stand, but England’s bowlers fought back. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga delivered economical overs and wickets at crucial junctures, while the death-over spell began to tilt the balance. The game hinged on a nerve-filled final over as Nepal needed ten runs, with Sam Curran bowling with precision and pressure to seal the win for England.
The result underscored England’s ability to deliver under pressure in a high-stakes tournament opener, while Nepal took away valuable lessons from a close contest. The Wankhede crowd witnessed a thrilling start to the T20 World Cup, promising plenty more drama to come for both teams in this group.
