Nepal edged out Australia by 11 runs in a thrilling match of the Hong Kong International Sixes at Mong Kok on Saturday.

Winning the toss, Australia opted to field first, setting the stage for an explosive batting display from Nepal.

Captain Sundeep Jora led Nepal’s innings, hammering 51 runs off just 16 balls with five fours and four sixes before retiring hurt. Lokesh Bam provided solid support with 33 off 13 balls, hitting three boundaries and three sixes.

Bibek Yadav added a quick-fire 12 off 4 balls, while Rashid Khan’s late cameo of 12 off just 2 balls helped Nepal put a 112-run target.

In response, Australia started shakily, losing captain Sam Heazlett early to Pratis GC for just one run. Jack Wood was the standout for Australia, scoring an impressive 55 off 16 balls with four boundaries and six sixes.

Despite Wood’s efforts, Australia struggled against Nepal’s disciplined bowling, particularly Pratis GC, who claimed three wickets for 24 runs in his two overs. Other contributions from the Nepali bowlers included a wicket each from Lokesh Bam and Bibek Yadav to help the Rhinos restrict Australia to 100 runs.

Earlier on Friday, Nepal defeated England by six wickets. With the victory, Nepal secured a place in the quarter-finals from Pool B and will play against Sri Lanka today.

Nepal also emerged as the group winner by defeating Australia and England.