Kathmandu: Nepal secured a spot in the final of the Tri-nation International T20 Series by defeating Papua New Guinea (PNG) in a thrilling encounter. The match, held at the Mission Road Cricket Ground in Hong Kong, saw Nepal triumph over PNG by 85 runs.

In pursuit of Nepal's formidable target of 199 runs, PNG managed to score 113 runs in 16.1 overs, losing all wickets. Hiri Hiri top-scored for PNG with 28 runs, followed by contributions from Sese Bau (21 runs), Tony Ura (13 runs), and Nosaina Pokana (12 runs).

Nepal's bowling prowess was on display, with Kushal Bhurtel claiming four wickets, Pratish GC securing two wickets, and Akash Chand and Gulsan Jha each taking one wicket.

Earlier in the match, Nepal, batting first after losing the toss, posted a competitive total of 198 runs in their allotted 20 overs, losing six wickets. Kushal Bhurtel led the charge with the highest individual score of 59 runs, including four fours and four sixes off 39 balls. Sandip Jora contributed 56 runs off 26 balls, featuring four sixes and three fours.

In response, PNG's captain Assad Vala managed to take two wickets, while Nosaina Pokana, John Kariko, and Norman Vanua claimed one wicket each.

With this victory, Nepal has accumulated three points from two games, having faced a rain-induced interruption in the first match against Hong Kong. The strong performance propels Nepal into the final of the Tri-nation T20 Series, showcasing their potential in the international cricket arena.