India cruised to the Super Fours stage of the Asia Cup with a comfortable 10-wicket win over Nepal in their Group A clash at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, thanks to captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill’s unbeaten half-centuries.
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In the first innings, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj picked up three wickets each , while Aasif Sheikh and Sompal Kami’s determined knocks helped Nepal post a competitive total of 230. However, rain interrupted play for around two hours when India had reached 17 for no loss in 2.1 overs. According to the DLS method, the revised target for India was set at 145 in 23 overs following the rain delay.
Rohit Sharma (74 not out off 59 balls) and Shubman Gill (67 not out off 62 balls) both smashed thei way to quick-fire fifties in an unbroken opening partnership that completed the chase with 17 balls to spare. Sharma struck six fours and five sixes, while Gill hit eight fours and a six, ensuring India advanced to the next stage of the tournament despite a lacklustre performance in the field and with the ball.
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India’s chase began cautiously, with Rohit Sharma surviving an LBW appeal off Karan KC. Shubman Gill, on the other hand, confidently played shots, hitting three boundaries through the off-side off Sompal Kami.
Rain interrupted play, but after the resumption, Gill continued to attack, slapping a cover drive. Sharma then began to accelerate, hitting a four and six off Karan KC. He later slog-swept Sandeep Lamichhane for a four and six.
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Sharma showcased his aggressive intent by pulling Lamichhane for four and smashing a slog-sweep for six. The highlight of the innings was Sharma’s incredible wristwork, flicking Dipendra Singh Airee for six.
Gill joined the attack by hitting a boundary and a six off Lamichhane to reach his fifty. Sharma pulled Lalit Rajbanshi for another six, and Gill reached his fifty with a four in the same over.
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Karan KC’s reintroduction didn’t change the course of the match as Sharma lofted him for a six and cut Gulsan Jha for four. Gill completed the chase stylishly with a fine leg glance for four to secure India’s win.
