By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Oct 15, 2025 18:42 PM • 23 views
In a commanding display of intent and teamwork, Nepal overpowered hosts Oman by 38 runs in the Super Six stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia & East Asia Pacific Qualifier 2025, held at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground on Wednesday night. Both sides had already confirmed their qualification for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka earlier in the day, but this encounter carried symbolic weight — a battle for regional supremacy and momentum heading into the global showpiece. On that front, Rohit Paudel's Nepal stood tall, delivering a performance that blended aggression, control, and confidence.
Bhurtel's Spark Leads Nepal to 151
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Nepal's innings revolved around a brilliant knock from Kushal Bhurtel, whose 69 off 49 balls provided the backbone for a competitive total. His partnership of 37 runs with Aasif Sheikh (24) gave Nepal a steady start, but Oman's left-arm spinner Nadeem Khan struck back with a devastating spell, returning figures of 4 for 20 to briefly halt the visitors' momentum. Despite the middle-order stutter, cameos from Dipendra Singh Airee and Gulshan Jha pushed Nepal to 151 for 9 in their 20 overs, a total that proved more than sufficient on a sluggish Al Amerat surface.
Disciplined Bowling, Relentless Pressure
Oman's reply never really took shape. The hosts faltered early under the pressure of a disciplined Nepali bowling unit, losing skipper Jatinder Singh (14) to a sharp delivery from Sompal Kami. From there, Nepal's bowlers tightened the noose — Sandeep Lamichhane worked his magic through spin, while Gulshan Jha turned the game decisively with a fiery three-wicket burst that dismantled Oman's middle order. Despite some resistance, Oman could only muster 113 for 9, falling well short of the target. The energy in the field, sharp catching, and precise execution reflected a team playing with purpose and belief.
Paudel's Pride and Nepal's Rising Spirit
With qualification already sealed, the win reaffirmed Nepal's growing stature in world cricket. Skipper Rohit Paudel praised his side's composure and fighting spirit after the match: "Defending 151 required discipline, and the boys delivered brilliantly. Kushal's innings set the tone, and our bowlers executed the plans to perfection. This win is special — a fitting way to celebrate our qualification for the T20 World Cup."
Score Summary:
Nepal: 151/9 (20 overs) — Kushal Bhurtel 69, Aasif Sheikh 24; Nadeem Khan 4/20 Oman: 113/9 (20 overs) — Gulshan Jha 3 wickets, Sompal Kami 2 wickets Result: Nepal won by 38 runs This result not only cements Nepal's position atop the Super Six standings but also highlights the balance and resilience that have become hallmarks of their campaign. As they march toward the 2026 World Cup, the Rhinos look sharper, hungrier, and more united than ever.
