Aasif Sheikh’s maiden century helped Nepal set a 298-run target for Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the final tri-series of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 being held at TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Thursday.

Losing the toss, Nepal was sent to bat first and openers Kushal Bhurtel and Sheikh built a 110-run partnership for the first wicket. Bhurtel was the first to go in 18.4 overs after scoring 45 runs off 56 balls. Kushal Malla came to the crease and was sent off for just two runs followed by Gyanendra Malla who was able to put just 11 runs on the scoreboard.

Skipper Rohit Paudel played a 30-run inning, while Bhim Sharki scored an impressive 44 runs off 38 deliveries. Aarif Sheikh added another 15 runs to Nepal’s scoreboard. The remaining batsmen failed to score in double digits.

For PNG, Semo Kamea took five Nepali wickets and was the most economical bowler. Riley Hekure claimed three Nepali scalps while Alei Nao bagged one wicket in their 10-wicket spell.