Did Sher Malla Just Make History as the Second Nepal Bowler to Take a First-Ball Wicket on T20 Debut?
Synopsis
In a remarkable display of skill, young pacer Sher Malla made headlines by taking a wicket off his very first delivery in T20 cricket. As he joins an elite club of bowlers, Nepal's aspirations in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 intensify. Read on to discover the thrilling match details and Malla's significant achievement.
Key Takeaways
Sher Malla made history by taking a wicket on his first delivery.
He joins the ranks of Paras Khadka as a notable Nepalese bowler.
England set a target of 184/7 in the match.
Nepal's chase was led by Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee .
Nepal's next match is against Italy on February 12.
Mumbai, Feb 8 (NationPress) Young fast bowler Sher Malla made cricketing history by becoming the second player from Nepal to secure a wicket with the very first ball of his T20 career during Nepal’s ICC T20 World Cup 2026 match against England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.
Malla achieved this remarkable milestone by catching an edge from England's opener Phil Salt, who was making his return after an injury, right off the first ball of the second over.
By accomplishing this feat, Malla joins an elite group led by former Nepal captain Paras Khadka, who previously achieved the same when he dismissed Irfan Ahmed off the opening ball of his T20 debut against Hong Kong in 2014.
Despite his impressive start, Malla struggled throughout the match, conceding 35 runs in just three overs while managing to take one wicket.
In the match, England recovered from a rocky beginning thanks to a solid partnership between T20 World Cup newcomer Jacob Bethell and captain Harry Brook, who combined for 71 runs for the third wicket. Bethell finished with a score of 55, while Brook contributed 53. They were supported by Will Jacks, who was named player of the match for his explosive 39 off just 18 balls, helping England set a formidable target of 184/7 in 20 overs.
Nepal mounted a determined chase led by their captain Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee, who pressured England with a crucial middle-order partnership. Their combined efforts, along with a late surge from Lokesh Ram, brought Nepal close to their first T20 World Cup victory. However, Sam Curran bowled an exceptional final over, successfully defending 10 runs, which secured England's victory in a nail-biting finish.
Nepal's next match in the T20 World Cup group stage is set against Italy at the same venue on February 12.
Point of View
It's my duty to highlight the remarkable journey of young athletes like Sher Malla, who continue to put Nepal on the cricketing map. His achievement is not just a personal milestone; it's a testament to Nepal's growing presence in international cricket. We stand by our players and their inspiring stories.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of Malla's first-ball wicket?
Malla became only the second Nepalese bowler to achieve this feat, joining former captain Paras Khadka.
What was the outcome of the match against England?
Nepal narrowly lost to England after a strong chase, with Sam Curran defending 10 runs in the final over.
When is Nepal's next match in the T20 World Cup?
Nepal's next match is against Italy on February 12 at the Wankhede Stadium.
How did England's players perform in the match?
Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook contributed significantly to England's score, with Bethell scoring 55 and Brook 53.
