In a cricketing clash for the ages, the Netherlands emerged victorious against Nepal in a match that made history by entering a third Super Over – a first in professional men’s T20 or List A cricket. Played in Glasgow, this nail-biting encounter kept fans on the edge of their seats as momentum swung wildly until the very end.
Triple Super Over Drama Makes History
The T20I between the Netherlands and Nepal will go down in history books, as it became the first men’s professional match to be decided after three Super Overs. Both teams fought fiercely, with the Netherlands ultimately clinching victory in a high-stakes battle of nerves and strategy.
Nepal, needing 16 runs in the final over of the regulation innings, pulled off a stunning effort to tie the game at 152. Nandan Yadav took on Dutch pacer Kyle Klein, slamming boundaries at will – 4, 2, 2, and another 4 – to bring the match into its first Super Over.
Nepal Dominate First Super Over, Netherlands Respond
In the first Super Over, Netherlands trusted left-arm spinner Daniel Doram, who had earlier bowled a tight spell of 3 for 14. However, under pressure, Doram conceded 19 runs, as Kushal Bhurtel smashed two sixes and a four to give Nepal the edge.
The Netherlands were not to be outdone. Michael Levitt hammered the first ball for six, while Max O’Dowd finished it off with a six and a four, equalling the target and forcing the match into a second Super Over.
Second Super Over Sees Momentum Swing Again
The Netherlands batted first in the second Super Over and looked strong early as Lalit Rajbanshi was dispatched for two sixes. But the bowler bounced back, restricting the Dutch to 17.
Nepal’s reply began with a bang. Captain Rohit Paudel launched a six off the first delivery, followed by a boundary from Dipendra Singh Airee. With 7 needed off the final ball, Airee sent Klein soaring over cow corner, taking the game into an unprecedented third Super Over.
Zach Lion-Cachet and Levitt Seal the Game
In a gutsy move, Netherlands brought on offspinner Zach Lion-Cachet for the third Super Over. The decision paid off handsomely. He dismissed both Paudel and debutant Rupesh Singh without conceding a run, leaving Nepal stunned.
The Netherlands then turned to Levitt once more. He kept his composure and smashed Sandeep Lamichhane’s delivery over long-on for six, sealing a sensational victory in what is now a landmark T20 international.
First Innings Highlights: Netherlands Set Competitive Total
Batting first, the Netherlands posted 152 for 7. Vikramjit Singh and Teja Nidamanuru laid the foundation with 30 and 35 runs respectively. However, Nepal’s bowlers, particularly Sandeep Lamichhane (3 for 18) and Nandan Yadav (2 for 18), kept the scoring in check.
Lamichhane made a swift impact after being introduced post-powerplay, dismantling the middle order. He bowled Levitt with a peach of a delivery and sent back Netherlands skipper Scott Edwards soon after. Lamichhane also picked up Noah Croes to complete a brilliant spell.
Despite the setbacks, Saqib Zulfiqar’s late-innings hitting gave the Dutch total much-needed impetus, crossing the 150-run mark.
Nepal’s Chase Fueled by Bhurtel and Paudel
Chasing 153, Nepal stumbled early as debutant Ben Fletcher dismissed Lokesh Bam with a sharp delivery. Kyle Klein followed up with another blow, removing Anil Sah to leave Nepal reeling at 9 for 2.
However, opener Kushal Bhurtel (34) and captain Rohit Paudel (48) launched a counterattack, steering Nepal to 52 in just five overs. Doram then turned the tide back in Netherlands’ favor, dismissing Bhurtel, Airee, and Kiran Thagunna to leave Nepal in trouble at 97 for 5.
Rupesh Singh reignited hopes with a quick cameo, while Paudel and Karan KC kept the chase alive into the final over. Nandan Yadav’s heroic last-over hitting ensured the match extended into the history-making Super Over saga.
A Match to Remember
This epic contest was more than just a game—it was a testament to the unpredictability and thrill of T20 cricket. For fans and players alike, the Netherlands vs Nepal clash will be remembered for its drama, intensity, and for breaking new ground in international cricket.
As T20I cricket continues to evolve, this triple Super Over showdown has set a new benchmark for excitement and resilience, showcasing the sheer unpredictability of the shortest format of the game.
