Nepal suffered a 106-run defeat against the United States in their opening match of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 tri-series in Dubai on Sunday.

Chasing a target of 263 runs set by the USA at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Nepal were bowled out for 156 in 39.1 overs, largely undone by left-arm spinner Harmeet Singh, who took a brilliant 6 for 27 in 8.1 overs, including one maiden.

For Nepal, Dipendra Singh Airee top-scored with 40 runs, while Aasif Sheikh contributed 37, Bhim Sharki added 29, and Arif Sheikh made 20.

Earlier, after being sent in to bat, the USA posted 262 for six in the allotted 50 overs. Opener Smit Patel led the innings with a composed 75 off 100 balls, hitting nine boundaries. Milind Kumar remained unbeaten on 70 from 50 balls with six fours and two sixes, while Saiteja Mukkamalla chipped in with 42 off 58 balls.

Smit and Mukkamalla shared a crucial 95-run partnership for the third wicket after the USA lost two early wickets for 48 runs. Despite losing both batsmen in the middle overs, Milind’s aggressive finish—adding 32 runs in the final two overs—helped his side post a competitive total.

For Nepal, Sandeep Lamichhane claimed two wickets, while Sompal Kami, Aarif Sheikh, and Dipendra Singh Airee took one each.

Nepal will next face the UAE on Wednesday before meeting the USA again on Saturday in their second round of League 2 fixtures.