Scotland vs Nepal – 77th ODI 2025 Match Preview

Date: Sunday, June 08, 2025
Time: 11:00 GMT / 3:30 PM IST
Venue: Forthill, Dundee
Tournament: ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 2023–2027
Live Streaming: FanCode

Match Overview

As the 77th ODI of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 campaign approaches, Scotland and Nepal are set to face off in a crucial encounter at Forthill, Dundee. With both teams vying for higher points in the standings, this match promises to be an intriguing battle between consistency and potential.

The venue, Forthill, has a historical edge in favor of Nepal, having seen them win the only previous match played there. However, Scotland’s experience and depth in the middle order could prove vital in what is expected to be a high-scoring contest on a batting-friendly pitch.

Team Previews

Scotland

Scotland have showcased their depth in the batting lineup, with George Munsey leading the charge in the top order. His 703 runs in the tournament underline his importance. The middle and lower order have also contributed significantly, providing the team with a balanced approach.

In bowling, Brandon McMullen remains a key asset with 28 wickets in the tournament. The experience of Safyaan Sharif and the spin threat of Mark Watt gives Scotland a well-rounded attack capable of making inroads in both conditions.

Probable Playing XI:

• George Munsey
• Matthew Cross (wk)
• Richie Berrington (c)
• Brandon McMullen
• Finlay McCreath
• Michael Leask
• Mark Watt
• Jack Jarvis
• Safyaan Sharif
• Brad Wheal
• Christopher McBride

Nepal

Nepal, while inconsistent, possess a few match-winners. Aarif Sheikh’s composed 78* in their last match highlighted his potential, and the opening duo of Aasif Sheikh and Kushal Bhurtel has been reliable. However, the middle order has often faltered, and captain Rohit Paudel needs to find his rhythm soon.

Sandeep Lamichhane and Sompal Kami provide a potent spin threat, and the team's ability to chase under lights could be pivotal.

Probable Playing XI:

• Kushal Bhurtel
• Aasif Sheikh
• Rohit Paudel (c)
• Aarif Sheikh (wk)
• Dipendra Airee
• Gulsan Jha
• Sompal Kami
• Sandeep Lamichhane
• Karan KC
• Lalit Rajbanshi
• Dev Khanal

Head-to-Head

At Forthill, Dundee:

• Matches Played: 1
• Scotland Won: 0
• Nepal Won: 1

Pitch & Weather Report

Pitch:

• Nature: Batting-friendly with early swing
• Spinners: Effective in middle overs
• Average Score: 250-260
• Chasing: Slightly easier under lights

Weather:

• Forecast: Clear skies, sunny
• Temperature: 18°C
• Humidity: 60%
• Rain: 0% chance

Toss & Match Prediction

Toss Prediction: Nepal
Decision: Nepal to choose to bat first
Match Prediction: Scotland to Win

Despite Nepal's historical edge at the venue and the toss prediction in their favor, Scotland’s depth in batting and all-round strength could tip the balance. However, a strong performance from Nepal’s spinners and Aarif Sheikh’s form could make this a closely contested affair.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

WK: Matthew Cross
BAT: George Munsey, Aarif Sheikh, Richie Berrington
AR: Brandon McMullen (C), Dipendra Airee, Finlay McCreath
BOWL: Mark Watt, Sompal Kami, Safyaan Sharif, Sandeep Lamichhane (VC)

Captain: Brandon McMullen
Vice-Captain: Sandeep Lamichhane

Final Thoughts

The Scotland vs Nepal ODI promises to be a fascinating encounter in the ICC CWC League 2. With a batting-friendly pitch and a balanced squad on display, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths. While Nepal have the historical advantage, Scotland's consistency and all-round depth make them strong favorites to clinch the win.

Stay tuned for the match on Sunday, June 08, 2025 at 11:00 GMT as the battle for points in the league continues.
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