Kathmandu: Kuwait emerged as champions of the Quadrangular T20I Series held in Hong Kong, defeating Nepal by a narrow margin of three runs in a nail-biting final on Saturday.

Chasing a target of 175 runs set by Kuwait, Nepal fell just short, getting bowled out for 171 in 19.3 overs. Despite a stellar performance by Bashir Ahmed, who hammered 80 runs off 43 balls with eight fours and four sixes, Nepal could not cross the finish line. Only Nandan Yadav (37) and Asif Sheikh (21) supported with runs in double digits, while the rest of the batting lineup faltered under pressure.

Kuwait’s bowling attack proved decisive, with Anudeep Chenthamara leading the charge by claiming three wickets. Yasin Patel and Naveenraj Rajendran picked up two wickets each, while Mohamed Shafeeq and Mohammad Aslam took one apiece.

Earlier, Kuwait posted a competitive 174 runs for the loss of seven wickets after being invited to bat first at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground. Ravija Sandaruwan played a key role, smashing a quickfire 63 runs off 36 balls, which included six boundaries and four sixes. Usman Patel (23), Meet Bhavsar (16), and Mohammad Aslam (13) added valuable contributions.

Nepali bowlers had their moments, with Sompal Kami and Nandan Yadav each grabbing two wickets, and Karan KC and Kushal Bhurtel taking one apiece.

With this victory, Kuwait claimed the Quadrangular T20I Series Championship, while Nepal was left to rue a missed opportunity in what turned out to be a closely contested finale.