Nepal’s ODI journey got off to a losing start after they were beaten by 55 runs by the Netherlands in the first of the two matches scheduled between the two sides.

The Paras Khadka led Nepalese team were bowled out for just 134 at Amstelveen in their chase of Netherlands’ 189.

Netherlands skipper Pieter Seelar won the toss on Wednesday and elected to bat first. However, the hosts were bowled out for 189 with Nepal skipper Khadka picking up a four-wicket haul.

Only Michael Nippon was able to muster a knock of note for the hosts with the all-rounder registering a 76-ball 51.

In reply, Nepal openers Gyananedra Malla and Anil Shah gave their side the perfect start with a 58-run stand for the first wicket. Once the latter was dismissed for 21, the floodgates opened with Seelar, Fred Klaassen and Nippon running riot for the hosts.

The three bowlers picked up three wickets each as Nepal suffered a dramatic collapse at Amstelveen. Four of the visitors’ batsmen were dismissed for a duck as the Netherlands held on to a thrilling win in front of their home fans.

This was Nepal’s first official one-day international ever since they won that status during the ICC World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe earlier this year.

Khadka’s men will now lock horns with the hosts in the second and final ODI which will be held at the same venue on Wednesday.