KATHMANDU, April 19: ACC Premier Cup 20-20 Cricket semi-final matches are taking place today. Nepal will compete against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the first semi-final match to be held today.
Nepal secured their spot in the semi-finals as the winners of Group 'A' in the ongoing Premier Cup in Oman, while the UAE advanced as the runners-up of Group 'B'.
The match between Nepal and the UAE is scheduled to start at 11:45AM today at the Al Emirates Cricket Ground.
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In the previous season, Nepal emerged victorious against the UAE in the final. As former champions, Nepal aim to continue their unbeaten streak and edge closer to their goal of competing in the Asia Cup once again. Conversely, the UAE seek to avenge their defeat from last season's final.
The winner of the ACC Premier Cup will earn the opportunity to compete in the 2025 Asia Cup. Hence, today's match holds significant importance for Nepal.
Nepal have won all 4 matches played in the current season, while the UAE have won 3 of 4 matches, losing 1 match. Therefore, today's match between the former winner and the runner-up is expected to be very exciting.
All eyes will be on Nepal's opening batter Kushal Bhurtel, alongside Aashif Sheikh and Dipendra Singh Airee. Their performance in the previous group stage match was below par, sparking curiosity about their gameplay in today's crucial fixture.
Additionally, other players include Abinash Bohra, Gulshan Jha, Kushal Malla, Karan KC, Lalit Rajbanshi, and Sompal Kami. If Nepal manage to prevent UAE openers Alishan Sarafu and Ashif Khan from scoring, they can restrict the UAE to a low score. This demands Nepal pay special attention to both their batting and bowling.
In the next semi-final match today, Group 'B' winners Oman will face Group 'A' runners-up Hong Kong. The match between these two teams at the Emirates Cricket Ground is set to commence at 4:15 PM.
