Archer strikes, England back in control

Sun, 08 February 2026

18:19

Nepal 161-5 (18 Ovs) vs England 184-7 | SCORECARD

Sam Curran continues. Lokesh Bam and Aarif keep things simple at first, rotating strike with a couple of singles. Then Lokesh shifts gears -- back-to-back boundaries, timing both beautifully to find the fence and inject some life into the chase. A handy over for Nepal. Ten runs come off it. Nepal move to 139/4 after 17 overs.

Jofra Archer is back for a crucial spell. He starts with a wide, gifting Nepal an extra. Aarif takes full advantage next ball -- a huge six, launched cleanly into the stands. But Archer responds immediately. EDGE --AND GONE!

A clever slower ball moving away from the right-hander draws the outside edge, and Jos Buttler makes no mistake behind the stumps. A timely breakthrough for England. Aarif departs for 10 off 8 balls.

Nepal slip further under pressure.

Gulsan Jha walks in as the new batter and starts with a single to get off the mark.

A wide follows, giving Nepal an extra, and then Lokesh Bam takes charge -- back-to-back massive sixes! The crowd erupts as the chase comes alive. A quick single at the end keeps the strike moving.

What a game-changing over -- 22 runs and a wicket!

After 18 overs, Nepal are 161/5, needing 24 from 12 balls.

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