Nepal has entered the final of SMS Friendship Cup by defeating Gujarat of India by eight runs.
Nepal has secured its place for the final, a game ahead in the triangular-friendly cricket tournament. Nepal has registered win in three consecutive matches.
Nepal was invited for batting first after losing toss in the fourth match of the league held yesterday at the Sai Meghpan Sportslife Ground in Bapi, Gujarat.
In the limited 20 overs game, Nepal gathered 181 runs at the loss of seven wickets. Chasing the winning target of 182 runs, Gujarat could only make 173 runs at the loss of seven wickets.
Nepal's openers made an impressive partnership of 125 runs. Kushal Bhurtel scored 67 runs with two sixes and nine fours. Another opener Mohammad Asif Sheikh contributed 85 runs. Other batsmen, including capital Rohit Poudel could not gather big runs.
Gujarat's Jayamit Patel took three and Aryal Desai and Drushant Soni took two wickets each. Likewise, batsman Umanga Tandal contributed 47 runs for Gujarat. Harsha Desai made 29 unbeaten.
Towards bowling, Nepal's Kushal Malla and Sompal Kami took two wickets each while Bibek Yadav took one wicket.
Nepal is taking on next match against Baroda on Friday.
