ICC World Cup Qualifiers 2023: West Indies vs Nepal – Clash of Titans
The highly anticipated clash between West Indies and Nepal is set to take place in the ninth match of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers 2023. Scheduled to be held at the prestigious Harare Sports Club in Harare, this Group A encounter promises an exciting showdown on Thursday, June 22.
Current Form
West Indies’ Impressive Start
The West Indies team commenced their campaign on a strong note with a resounding 39-run victory over the United States in their opening fixture. Opting to bat first, they faced an early collapse but managed to recover thanks to the brilliant fifties from Johnson Charles (66) and Shai Hope (54). The hard-hitting innings of Jason Holder (56 off 40 balls) ensured that West Indies set a competitive target of 297 runs.
In their defense of 298, West Indies bowlers Kyle Mayers and Alzarri Joseph displayed their skills by picking up two wickets each, restricting the United States to 258/7. Notably, Gajanand Singh from the USA put up a valiant unbeaten century (101 runs off 109 deliveries) comprising eight fours and two sixes.
Nepal’s Resurgence
Nepal, after a disappointing start, made a strong comeback in their previous match against the United States, clinching a comfortable six-wicket victory. Choosing to bowl first, Nepal’s Karan KC wreaked havoc on the USA’s batting lineup, single-handedly dismantling it and claiming four wickets. Consequently, the United States could only manage a mere total of 207 runs in 49 overs.
Chasing the modest target, Bhim Sharki anchored Nepal’s innings with a patient knock of 77 runs, including seven fours and a six. His contribution played a vital role in Nepal achieving the target with seven overs to spare, while Dipendra Singh Airee remained unbeaten on 39 off 32 balls.
West Indies vs Nepal Head to Head
In One Day Internationals (ODIs), West Indies and Nepal have never faced each other before, making this encounter all the more intriguing.
Key Players to Watch
Analyzing Form Through ICC CWC 2023 Qualifiers Warm-up Match Statistics
West Indies Player Team Records
| Players Name | Runs | Batting Ave. | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
| J Charles | 66 | 80 | 7 | 2 | 82.50 |
| Holder | 56 | 40 | 2 | 3 | 140 |
| Roston Chase | 55 | 55 | 4 | 1 | 100 |
| Shai Hope (c & wk) | 54 | 60 | 6 | 1 | 90 |
| Pooran | 43 | 28 | 2 | 3 | 153.57 |
Nepal Player Team Records
| Players Name | Runs | Batting Ave. | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
| Shayan Jahangir (wk) | 100 | 79 | 10 | 3 | 126.58 |
| Sushant Modani | 42 | 71 | 3 | 1 | 59.15 |
| Gajanand Singh | 26 | 41 | 2 | 1 | 63.41 |
Match Details
Pitch Report
The pitch at Harare Sports Club is expected to favor the batsmen, setting the stage for a high-scoring contest. Both teams are likely to surpass the 300-run mark comfortably, while the bowlers will face a challenging day in the field.
Weather Forecast
Harare’s playing conditions are expected to be pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 26 degrees Celsius. Fortunately, there are no indications of rain interruptions during Thursday’s game.
Probable XIs
West Indies
The potential playing 11 for West Indies comprises Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Johnson Charles, Shai Hope as captain and wicketkeeper, Nicholas Pooran, Roston Chase, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, and Keemo Paul.
Nepal
Nepal’s potential lineup is expected to include Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh as the wicketkeeper, Bhim Sharki, Rohit Paudel as the captain, Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, and Lalit Rajbanshi in the playing 11.
Match Prediction: West Indies to Triumph
Both teams enter this match with convincing victories in their previous games. However, the experienced West Indies side, led by Shai Hope, holds a clear advantage and is considered the favorites for this clash.
Conclusion
The ICC World Cup Qualifiers 2023 match between West Indies and Nepal is set to deliver an exhilarating showdown as these two talented teams clash for the first time in ODIs. With West Indies displaying their dominance in their opening victory and Nepal showcasing a strong comeback, anticipation runs high. The Harare Sports Club will witness a high-scoring battle on a batting-friendly pitch, complemented by pleasant weather conditions. Although West Indies holds the favorites tag due to their experience and form, Nepal has the potential to spring a surprise. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await this thrilling encounter, adding to the excitement of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers 2023, especially when they’ve placed some cricket bets through a reputable sportsbook.
