Nepal posted a 153-run target against Pakistan in the Asian Cricket Council U-19 Asia Cup on Friday.

Nepal had a poor start after losing opener Tilak Bhandari at seven runs in 2.2 overs. Aakash Tripathi, who came to the crease after the wicket of Bhandari, managed to score only six runs off 22 balls before losing his wicket in 7.4 overs.

Nepal ran into deep trouble after Captain Dev Khanal was out for a duck facing 13 balls in 11.4 overs and opener Arjun Kumal was sent back to the pavilion at 21 runs in 15.6 overs.

Uttam Magar, who then came to bat, was the pick of the Nepali batting as he scored 51 off 76 balls, smashing two sixes and three fours. Magar shared a 68-run partnership with Dipesh Kandel, who made 31 off 59 deliveries.

The duo helped Nepal put 152-10 on the board in 47.2 overs.

Mohammad Zeeshan of Pakistan completed his six-wicket haul as Amir Hassan grabbed two wickets.

Pakistan won the toss and decided to field first.

On October 21, Nepal secured the 2023 ACC men’s U-19 Asia Cup berth as they thrashed Japan in the semi-finals of the ACC Men’s U-19 Premier Cup played in Malaysia.

Nepal will play Afghanistan on Sunday before facing off defending champions India on Tuesday.