In a gripping rain-affected ODI in Kirtipur, Scotland held their nerve to edge Nepal by just two runs, defending 13 off the final over in a match that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Batting first on a tricky pitch, Scotland posted 243-8 from their 50 overs. Opener George Munsey set the tone with a blistering 62-ball 75, smashing 12 fours and two sixes in a display of pure power. Finlay McCreath provided solid support with 35, while Michael English anchored the lower order with a calm 34 not out. Late contributions from Mark Watt (24) and Michael Leask (29) gave the innings some crucial momentum, despite Nepal's varied bowling attack, led by Sandeep Lamichhane's 4-41.

Nepal's chase was interrupted by rain, setting a revised target of 221 in 39 overs. Scotland struck early through Mark Watt, who took two wickets in three balls. But a resilient partnership between captain Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee brought Nepal back into contention, swinging the momentum their way.

The game turned dramatically when Paudel was bowled attempting a scoop off Brad Currie, and Airee soon followed, slicing spinner Oli Davidson to short third. However, Gulshan Jha had other ideas. The Nepalese batter launched a stunning counterattack, remaining unbeaten on 61 from just 35 deliveries, keeping his side in the hunt until the very end.

With 13 needed off the final over, all eyes were on Currie. The Sussex seamer, who finished with 3-43, kept his composure under immense pressure, conceding just four runs from his first five balls. Jha smashed the last delivery over the ropes, but it was too little, too late, as Scotland secured a thrilling two-run victory.

"We knew from the start we were going to have to work hard to get the win," said Scotland captain Richie Berrington. "Really pleased we managed to hold our nerve under pressure. Brad is very clear in what he's trying to do, which makes things easy as a captain. The trust is fully there and thankfully he managed to execute."

For cricket fans, this match was a reminder of the beauty of the sport—where every ball counts, and composure under pressure can make all the difference. Whether you're playing in the backyard or on the international stage, having the right gear and the right mindset is key to staying cool when the heat is on.