By News Editor 
Nepal registered an emphatic 37-run victory over Oman in the 2nd Match of the Canada T20 Tri-Series 2024, held at the Maple Leaf North-West Ground in King City. All-rounder Gulsan Jha stole the show with a stellar performance, contributing both with the bat and ball, helping Nepal defend their total of 176/6 and bowl out Oman for 139 in 19.1 overs.
Batting first, Nepal posted a competitive total, thanks to Gulsan Jha’s late surge with an unbeaten 40 off 17 balls, paired with aggressive strokes from Aasif Sheikh and Kushal Malla earlier in the innings. In response, Oman faltered despite efforts from Shoaib Khan and a blistering cameo from Rafiullah. Jha, continuing his form, also starred with the ball, taking two crucial wickets.
This victory boosts Nepal’s momentum in the tournament, with Gulsan Jha deservedly named Player of the Match for his all-round heroics.
Key Highlights:
- Gulsan Jha’s All-Round Brilliance: Jha’s explosive 40 off 17 balls* propelled Nepal to a solid total. His power-hitting at the death proved vital. He also chipped in with 2/14 in his 2.1 overs, making him the standout performer of the day.
- Nepal’s Competitive Total: Contributions from Aasif Sheikh (27 off 22), Kushal Malla (30 off 26), and Jha’s finishing touch helped Nepal post 176/6 on a tricky surface.
- Oman’s Early Collapse: Oman struggled at the start, with Karan KC and Rijan Dhakal picking up key wickets early on. Oman found themselves reeling at 28/4 after 7.1 overs.
- Shoaib Khan and Rafiullah’s Resistance: Shoaib Khan fought hard with a measured 45 off 39 balls, while Rafiullah’s blazing 33 off 12 balls, which included four sixes, gave Oman a glimmer of hope before their eventual collapse.
- Karan KC’s Bowling: Nepal’s pacer Karan KC was instrumental in dismantling Oman’s middle and lower order, finishing with impressive figures of 3/36.
- Aqib Ilyas’ Effort for Oman: Ilyas stood out for Oman with the ball, taking 3/32 in his four overs, keeping the pressure on Nepal during the middle overs.
Brief Scores:
Nepal: 176/6 in 20 overs (Gulsan Jha 40*, Kushal Malla 30, Aqib Ilyas 3/32)
Oman: 139 in 19.1 overs (Shoaib Khan 45, Rafiullah 33, Karan KC 3/36, Gulsan Jha 2/14)
Result: Nepal won by 37 runs
Player of the Match: Gulsan Jha (Nepal) – 40* (17) & 2/14 (2.1 overs)
Nepal’s convincing victory, led by Gulsan Jha’s all-round brilliance, puts them in a strong position in the Canada T20 Tri-Series. Oman will need to regroup quickly as they aim to bounce back in their upcoming matches. With both bat and ball firing, Nepal demonstrated their capability to defend even moderate totals, setting the tone for the rest of the tournament.