Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Nepal’s ACC Men’s U19 Premier Cup 2025 campaign ended on a disappointing note, losing to hosts UAE by 28 runs in Ajman on Monday.
Despite the loss, Nepal qualified for the Men’s U19 Asia Cup together with the UAE.
Electing to field first, Nepal bowled out UAE for 147 in 45.5 overs, led by a superb six-wicket haul from Dyananand Mandal. However, Nepal were dismissed for 120 in 33.2 overs as the batters failed to capitalize on the strong bowling display.
Although Nepal removed the UAE’s top three batters for just 20 runs, Ahmed Khudadad anchored the innings with a valiant 71. He received key support from Noor Ullah Ayobi, who struck 26 off 47 deliveries, while Ayaan Misbah added 11.
Mandal conceded only 17 runs while taking six wickets in 6.5 overs. Aprajit Poudel claimed two wickets, with Nitesh Kumar Patel and Ashok Dhami picking up one each.
Nepal’s chase faltered from the outset as they lost four wickets with just 16 runs on the board. Aashish Luhar (25 off 40) and captain Ashok Dhami (34 off 66) offered some resistance, but regular breakthroughs kept UAE firmly in control. Aprajit Poudel managed six runs, Nitesh Kumar Patel remained unbeaten on eight, and Mandal was dismissed without scoring.
Yug Jai Sharma and Ali Asgar Shums picked up three wickets each for the UAE, while Uddhish Suri and Noor Ullah Ayobi took two each.
