England survived a late scare to defeat Nepal by four runs in a pulsating Group C encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.

Chasing a target of 185, Nepal finished on 180 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs, falling just short despite a strong all-round performance and vocal support from Nepali fans in the stands.

Earlier, England posted 184 for 7 after being put in to bat. Will Jacks was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 39 off 18 balls and an economical bowling spell of 1 for 17. He was also Cricinfo’s Most Valuable Player of the match.

England’s innings was anchored by Jacob Bethell, who struck 55 off 35 balls, and skipper Harry Brook, who made 53 off 32. The pair added 71 runs for the fourth wicket after England lost early momentum. Jos Buttler scored 26 off 17 before being caught behind, while Phil Salt was dismissed cheaply for one.

Nepal’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout. Dipendra Singh Airee impressed with both bat and ball, claiming 2 for 23 and later scoring a brisk 44 off 29. Nandan Yadav also picked up two wickets, conceding 25 runs, while Sandeep Lamichhane returned figures of 1 for 25.

In reply, Nepal mounted a determined chase. Lokesh Bam struck 39 off 20 deliveries, while Rohit Paudel contributed 39 off 34 to keep Nepal in contention deep into the innings. Airee’s late flourish further tightened the contest, but England’s bowlers held their nerve in the closing overs.

Liam Dawson played a crucial role for England with the ball, taking 2 for 21, while Jacks’ tidy spell proved decisive in the final outcome.

Despite the narrow defeat, Nepal’s performance against one of the tournament favourites marked another statement of their growing stature in international T20 cricket.