Inspired by the return of their champion leg-spinner, Nepal's slow bowlers capitalized on a sluggish surface to restrict South Africa to 115 for seven in their Group D match of the T20 World Cup at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St. Vincent on Friday.
Sandeep Lamichhane, who missed the first two matches due to visa issues, went wicketless in his four overs but his presence seemed to energize his teammates. Leg-break bowler Kushal Bhurtel was the standout performer, taking 4 for 19, while off-spinner Dipendra Singh Airee also made significant contributions with 3 for 21. Nepalese captain Rohit Paudel's decision to field first after winning the toss paid off as the South African top-order struggled against the spin attack.
Opener Reeza Hendricks provided some stability for the Proteas with a top-score of 43 off 49 balls, which included five fours and a six. However, the rest of the South African batsmen found it challenging to build momentum, with no other player making a substantial contribution until Tristan Stubbs added a late flourish with an unbeaten 27 off 18 balls.
Despite being already assured of a place in the Super Eight phase, South Africa aimed to close out their group campaign with a fourth consecutive win. Yet, Nepal's bowlers dominated the proceedings, maintaining pressure throughout the innings. The late wickets of Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada, taken by Bhurtel off consecutive balls, ensured that Nepal finished the innings strongly.
Nepal, seeking redemption after a frustrating campaign in the United States that included a loss to the Netherlands and a washed-out match against Sri Lanka, showcased their bowling prowess against the powerful South African lineup, demonstrating their potential to compete at this level.
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