Nepal’s run in the Hong Kong International Sixes tournament ended in the third quarter-finals on Saturday, with a 40-run defeat to Sri Lanka at Mong Kok. Sri Lanka set a challenging target of 124 runs after finishing on 123-2 in six overs.

Sandun Weerakkody was a standout for Sri Lanka, retiring hurt after a blistering 50 off just 14 balls, which included four fours and five sixes. Captain Lihuru Madhusanka added a quick-fire 31 off 8 balls, while Lahiru Samarakoon’s 22 from 5 balls bolstered Sri Lanka’s impressive total. Nepal’s bowlers faced a tough inning, with Pratis GC and Narayan Joshi each taking a wicket but conceding at high economy rates.

In response, Nepal lost captain Sundeep Jora early for a duck. Rashid Khan provided a glimmer of hope with a rapid 55 off 18 balls, hitting eight sixes, but lacked sufficient support from his teammates to chase down the target. Samarakoon’s 2-6 in one over and Tharindu Rathnayake’s 2-24 further curtailed Nepal’s run rate, and they finished at 83-6 in 5 overs.

Lahiru Samarakoon was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance.

Nepal reached the quarter-finals from Pool B after impressive victories over England and Australia.