KATHMANDU: Nepal narrowly missed out on winning the title of the four-nation T20I series, falling to Kuwait by just 3 runs in a nail-biting final match held in Hong Kong.

Chasing a target of 175 runs set by Kuwait, Nepal was bowled out for 171 in 19.3 overs. A shaky start to the innings proved costly, despite a brilliant fightback from Bashir Ahmed and Nandan Yadav.

Bashir top-scored for Nepal with a blistering 80 off 43 balls, including eight fours and four sixes. Nandan Yadav added a quickfire 37 off just 14 balls, hitting two fours and four sixes, bringing Nepal close to victory.

With only 3 runs needed from the final three balls, hopes were high—but they were dashed when Bashir was caught by Clint Anto, sealing the win for Kuwait.

Earlier, Kuwait posted 174 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs after being invited to bat first. The final was played at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong.