Nepal put in a clinical bowling performance to dismiss Malaysia for just 90 runs in 43.1 overs in the semi-final of the ACC Men’s U16 East Zone Cup 2025 at the Selangor Turf Club in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.

After winning the toss and opting to field first, Nepal’s bowlers made early inroads and maintained pressure throughout the innings. Abhay Yadav led the attack with an excellent spell, finishing with figures of 4 for 15 runs from his 10-over spell. He was ably supported by Shubham Khanal, who picked up 3 for 12 in 10 overs, including four maidens.

Malaysia could never recover from their early setbacks. They were reduced to 4-2 in the third over and kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Wicketkeeper-batter Muhammad Fathul Muin was the lone resistance, scoring a fighting 38 off 71 balls with six fours and a six. Only Captain Deeaz Patro (10) reached double figures among the rest.

Bipin Prasad Sharma and Sachin Bhatta took one wicket each, while Suyog Bhattarai bowled tightly, conceding just 25 runs in his nine overs.

Nepal’s tight lines, disciplined bowling, and sharp fielding effort ensured that Malaysia were never allowed to build any significant partnerships. The highest stand of the innings was 36 runs for the eighth wicket between Muin and Shahmil Adam.

Chasing a modest target of 91, Nepal are in a strong position to secure a spot in the final of the tournament.