The match no. 5 and 6 of the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2023 turned out to be yet another thrilling encounters, with Zimbabwe defeating the Netherlands at the Harare Sports Club and Nepal emerging victorious against the USA at the Takashinga Sports Club.
Speaking of the tournament’s fifth match, between Zimbabwe and Netherlands, it witnessed Netherlands batters putting up an impressive performance and posting a challenging total of 315 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 50 overs after being asked to bat first. Vikramjit Singh was the standout performer and scored a well-crafted 88 runs off 111 deliveries for his team. He was well supported by Scott Edwards, who played an aggressive innings, scoring 83 runs off just 72 balls. Sikandar Raza was the pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe, claiming four wickets for 55 runs.
Chasing a target of 316 runs for victory, Zimbabwe came out with a determined mindset. They showcased their batting prowess and displayed exceptional skills throughout their innings. Sean Williams played a crucial knock, scoring 91 runs off 58 deliveries that provided a solid foundation for the team. However, it was Raza’s blistering century that stole the show. He played a breathtaking innings, smashing 102 runs off just 54 balls. His contribution proved to be the turning point of the match and helped Zimbabwe comfortably chase down the target with 9.1 overs to spare and six wickets remaining.
Raza’s all-round show earned him the well-deserved ‘Player of the Match’ award.
Sikandar Raza's all-round show powered Zimbabwe to victory!#CWC23 #WorldCupQualifiers #ZIMvNED #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/mKIn2mptL3
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) June 20, 2023
On the other hand, Nepal won the toss and opted to field first against the USA in the sixth match. The decision was proven right by their bowlers as they managed to bundle out the USA for 207 runs in 49 overs. Shayan Jahangir was the top-scorer for the USA as he scored a brilliant century off just 79 deliveries. Sushant Modani supported Jahangir with a patient knock of 42 runs from 71 balls. However, the rest of the batting lineup struggled to capitalize on the foundation set by the openers. Karan KC was the pick of the bowlers for Nepal, claiming four crucial wickets for 33 runs. Gulsan Jha also contributed with three wickets for 52 runs.
In reply, Nepal started their innings confidently. Bhim Sharki played a crucial role at the top, anchoring the innings with a well-constructed knock of 77 runs from 114 deliveries. Kushal Bhurtel provided valuable support with a contribution of 39 runs from 54 balls. Nepal batter’s great composure and determination ensured they didn’t lose wickets in clusters. The middle order held their nerve and contributed with valuable runs, guiding Nepal towards the target with ease. Nepal comfortably chased the target for the loss of only four wickets in 43 overs.
Karan was adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ for his exceptional performance with the ball.
Nepal open their account in the points table 🙂#CWC23 #WorldCupQualifiers #NEPvUSA #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/HhzRxouITS
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) June 20, 2023
