ADELAIDE: Nepal’s cricket team, currently on a tour of Australia, lost their first T20 practice match against South Australia by three wickets.

Chasing a target of 147, South Australia secured victory on the final ball with a boundary, finishing at 147/7. After winning the toss, South Australia opted to field first in Thursday’s game.

Nepal’s batting lineup failed to build long partnerships, with no player anchoring the innings.Bhim Sharki top-scored with 32 runs off 32 balls, while Dipendra Singh Airee made 26 off 19 deliveries and opener Aasif Sheikh contributed 22 off 13.

Nepal completed their full 20 overs, posting 146 runs for the loss of nine wickets.For South Australia, Thompson, T. Brown, and H. Manenti each picked up two wickets.

In reply, South Australia’s chase was led by A.P. Winter with 36 runs, supported by Hogenborijim’s 28 and M.W. Harvey’s 27.

Nepal’s bowling effort was highlighted by Sandeep Lamichhane, who claimed three wickets for just 18 runs. Nandan Yadav took two wickets, while captain Rohit Paudel grabbed one.

The two sides will meet again later today for the second T20 practice match. Earlier this week, Nepal played two matches against Australian Capital Territory (ACT), winning the first by 41 runs and the second by six wickets.

Following the T20 series, Nepal will also play a one-day match against South Australia on Saturday, scheduled to begin at 5:15 AM Nepal time.