Cricket Kitchen

Nepal Clinches ICC T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier Title in Unbeaten Run

October 17, 2025

 

Kathmandu – In a historic display of dominance and consistency, Nepal has emerged victorious in the ICC T20 World Cup Asia and East Asia-Pacific Qualifier, completing the tournament undefeated. The triumph came with a thumping 124-run win over Samoa in their final match on Friday, sealing the title in style.

After being sent in to bat, Nepal’s batting line-up delivered a commanding performance. Openers and middle-order batters contributed significantly, with Aasif Sheikh anchoring the innings with a well-constructed 69 off 41 balls, including seven boundaries and four sixes. Dipendra Singh Airee added further strength with a brisk 53, while Lokesh Bam’s explosive 39 off just 11 deliveries gave Nepal a powerful finish. They ended their innings at 211 for 4 in 20 overs.

In response, Samoa struggled to get going against Nepal’s disciplined bowling attack. Despite a valiant 40-run effort from Sin Solia, Samoa could only manage 87 runs for 7 wickets at the end of their 20 overs. Lalit Rajbanshi led Nepal’s bowling with three wickets, supported by Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, and captain Rohit Paudel, who each took one.

The victory not only secured the tournament title but also marked a significant milestone for Nepal—winning their first ICC tournament in over a decade. The last such title came in 2014, when Nepal lifted the ICC Division Four trophy. Though they came close in 2023, losing to Oman in a Super Over in the World Cup Qualifier final, this win reestablished their presence on the international stage.

Throughout the tournament, Nepal showcased their depth and resilience. In the group stage, they defeated Kuwait and Japan. Carrying forward their points from the Japan win into the Super Six, they opened that phase with a dramatic 1-run win over the UAE. A narrow 5-run victory over Qatar soon followed, which all but confirmed their spot in the T20 World Cup. With other results going their way, Nepal officially secured qualification even before playing their final two games.

They capped off their campaign with a 38-run win over Oman before dismantling Samoa in the final match. Alongside Nepal, UAE and Oman have also qualified for the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Nepal’s unbeaten run and eventual title win not only boost the nation’s cricketing profile but also set the tone for their preparations heading into next year’s global tournament.