Kathmandu: Nepal has emerged as the champions of the ACC U16 East Zone Cup Cricket tournament, securing a convincing victory over Malaysia by 221 runs in the final match. This marks Nepal's hat-trick win in the tournament, having previously defeated Singapore in 2017 and Malaysia in 2019 to clinch the title.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss at the Bayuemas Oval Cricket Ground in Malaysia, Nepal posted a formidable total of 252 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their allotted 35 overs. In pursuit of the target of 253 runs, Malaysia's batting lineup faltered and could only manage 31 runs in 14.5 overs. Muhammad Akram top-scored for Malaysia with 10 runs, while the remaining batsmen failed to reach double digits.

Nepal's skipper, Abhisek Tiwari, played a pivotal role in the victory, claiming five wickets in six overs while conceding just seven runs and maintaining a maiden over. Santosh Yadav contributed with three wickets, and Sagar Gaire took one wicket to restrict Malaysia's run chase.

During Nepal's innings, Naren Bhatta played an outstanding knock of 112 runs, remaining unbeaten. He struck two sixes and 10 fours off 89 balls. Niraj Yadav contributed 47 runs, Suryamshu Koirala scored 18, Santosh Yadav made 26, and Ashok Dhami added 11 runs to Nepal's total.

Muhammad Akram was the most successful bowler for Malaysia, taking three wickets, while Arin Aquil and Muhammad Fadul Muin claimed one wicket each.

In the semi-final matches held on Monday, Nepal and Malaysia secured their spots in the final by defeating Singapore and Hong Kong, respectively. The tournament featured teams from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Maldives, Indonesia, Thailand, and Nepal.