Forde, Hosein Rip Through Nepal as West Indies Seal Super Eights Spot

Morning moisture at the Wankhede proved the perfect ally for Matthew Forde and Akeal Hosein, who orchestrated a ruthless powerplay squeeze to leave Nepal reeling and propel West Indies into the Super Eights.

On a fresh pitch with assistance on offer, West Indies captain Shai Hope opted to bowl — a decision vindicated within minutes. Hosein, operating with the new ball, continued his dominance over Kushal Bhurtel by firing in a skiddy arm ball that shattered the stumps.

From the other end, Forde delivered a probing spell that carried a distinct red-ball flavour. Drafted in due to a niggle to Romario Shepherd, the tall seamer extracted swing, seam movement and steep bounce to suffocate Nepal’s top order. His tight lines and awkward angles left batters rooted to the crease, and his wicket-maiden set the tone for a brutal start.

Nepal stumbled to 22 for 3 in the powerplay — the second-lowest such total in the tournament — managing just three boundaries. Forde’s final figures of 4-1-10-1 underlined his control, while Jason Holder struck twice in his opening burst and later completed a four-wicket haul to dismantle the middle and lower order.

At 42 for 4 after ten overs, Nepal were chasing the game. Even attacking strokes found fielders, and West Indies’ discipline ensured there was no recovery.

Backed by confident batting in earlier matches, West Indies comfortably chased 134 to register a third straight win, their all-round display reflecting renewed clarity and momentum as they target a third T20 world title.

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