The Fiji Blues have crashed to a disappointing defeat in their first game of the World Cricket League Division 5 competition in Nepal.

Playing against tournament favourites USA in their first match the Blues were never in the match against a strong American outfit.

The match started well with Carlos Wright being run out on the second ball of the match thanks to a direct hit from Sekove Ravoka. 

However, from there the bowling lacked penetration against the US batsmen who compiled a big score with sensible batting.  The Blues bowling was too inconsistent to cause the Americans any real problems with only experienced off spinner Iniasi Cakacaka (1 for 33 from 10 overs) bowling a consistent spell.

Joe Dabea claimed four wickets but was expensive while the inner fielding was good enough to effect three runouts.

USA captain Steve Massiah top scored for his team with a well compiled 74 before being run out, while Marshall was explosive in scoring 61 off just 28 balls late in the innings.

The USA ended their 50 overs with an imposing 8 for 353.

In reply the Blues lost wickets early as the US opening bowlers put them under enormous pressure.

The Blues quickly slumped to 4 for 30, not helped by a thumb injury to skipper Joe Rika who was forced to bat down the order in great discomfort.

Only middle order batsman Joe Dabea (12 not out) showed the required application and patience to withstand the US bowling attack as the Blues were dismissed for a paltry 68.

The Blues will now try to re-group in time for tomorrow’s game against Jersey who were defeated by tournament hosts Nepal in their match today.  The other result saw Singapore comfortably account for Bahrain on the first day’s play.