Fans at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai gave Nepal a standing ovation after their heartbreaking four-run loss to England in a last-ball thriller at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Sunday. Despite the defeat, Nepal won hearts with their fearless performance against one of the strongest teams in world cricket.
After the match, the Nepali players took a lap around the ground, acknowledging the loud support from their travelling fans as well as the local crowd. The appreciation for Nepal’s fighting spirit was not limited to the stadium, as several former cricketers praised the team’s effort on social media.
Yuvraj Singh lauded Nepal’s display in an Instagram story, writing, “Huge respect to Nepal. Took on one of the best teams in the world, stayed in the fight till the very last ball and showed what belief and heart can do. This is how teams grow and champions rise. The cricketing world is watching!”
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also shared his thoughts on X, calling Nepal “one of the best emerging cricketing nations” and highlighting the team’s “huge potential and upside.”
Irfan Pathan felt Nepal were just a few finishing touches away from pulling off a famous win. “So the finishing touches were missing, but Nepal are clearly on the right path. Great to see them put England under the pump,” he wrote.
Former South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn also expressed his admiration, posting on X, “Nepal, I offer my services to you if you ever need ’em! Up, up and UP!”
How Nepal Lost to England
England managed to escape with a narrow four-run victory in a match filled with twists and turns, as Nepal pushed them all the way before falling just short in a dramatic finish.
