The “Associate El Clasico” rivalry between Nepal and UAE reignites in the ACC Premier Cup semi-final. Can Nepal avenge their World Cup qualifying loss and secure their Asia Cup berth?
In a crucial rematch steeped in recent history, Nepal is set to face the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the semi-finals of the ACC Premier Cup 2024 this Friday. The encounter, dubbed the “Associate El Clasico” by fans and pundits alike, offers Nepal a chance to avenge their heart-wrenching defeat in the ICC T-20 World Cup Qualifier A semi-final held on February 22, 2022.
Two years ago, Nepal’s dreams of making it to the T20 World Cup were dashed as UAE handed them a 68-run defeat at the same venue. However, Nepal has since shown remarkable improvement and resilience, suggesting a thrilling contest is on the horizon.
Backstory
Nepal had a stellar run in the previous ACC Premier Cup, defeating UAE in the final and making a significant statement by playing against cricketing giants India and Pakistan for the first time in the Asia Cup. More recently, Nepal continued their dominance with an 8-wicket victory over UAE in the semi-finals of the ICC T-20 World Cup Asia Qualifiers. UAE, on the other hand, is looking to overcome their disappointments in the World Cup and Asia Cup qualifiers by proving their mettle in Oman.
Preview & Team News
Nepal enters the match with high morale, having been actively engaged in international fixtures. Rohit Paudel, Nepal’s captain, emphasized the team’s forward-looking approach, dismissing the past setbacks as irrelevant. “The past is not important. What is coming in the future and living in the present is very important. Everyone is ready for the upcoming game,” Paudel stated confidently.
The UAE team faces challenges, notably missing key player Vriitya Aravind, who is absent due to academic commitments. In his place, Alishan Sharafu has stepped up, scoring 189 runs in the tournament so far. Despite the UAE’s strong batting lineup, their bowling remains a concern, with limited standout performers beyond Junaid Siddique and spinner Ayan Khan.
Key Players
Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee, who has been in fine form, scoring runs and taking wickets, will be pivotal in Nepal’s strategy. His all-round performance could be crucial in tilting the match in Nepal’s favor. Additionally, the spin-friendly conditions in Oman could benefit Nepal, whose lineup is capable of exploiting this weakness in the UAE batting order.
The winners of the ACC Premier Cup semi-final will secure a spot against top teams in the upcoming Asia Cup, adding extra significance to this encounter. With both teams having a lot to prove, this match is not just about winning but about setting a statement on the international stage.
As the teams prepare for the face-off, the cricket world eagerly anticipates another chapter in this riveting rivalry, hoping for a match filled with drama, strategy, and exemplary cricket.
