By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Oct 17, 2025 15:25 PM • 22 views
Al Amerat, Oman — Nepal's ascent in the world of associate cricket reached a historic new peak today as they were crowned unbeaten champions of the T20 Asia and East Asia-Pacific Qualifier. Capping a flawless campaign, this victory is more than just a trophy. Having already punched their ticket to the 10th edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup with two games to spare, Nepal's final act was one of absolute supremacy. They steamrolled Samoa by a massive 124 runs on Friday, reaffirming their status as the dominant force of the region.
Batting Bonanza Sets Up Commander's Win
The final was a showcase of explosive batting. Electing to bat first, Nepal posted a monumental total of 211 for 4 in their 20 overs, a score that instantly dwarfed Samoa's challenge. The tone was set early by the openers, Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh, whose 61-run powerplay blitz provided the perfect launchpad. Though Bhurtel departed for 17, Sheikh continued his sublime run of form, cracking a career-best T20I score of 69 off just 41 balls, an innings punctuated by 7 fours and 4 towering sixes. The middle-order maintained the high-octane pace. Vice-captain Dipendra Singh Airee mirrored Sheikh's milestone, notching his 10th T20I half-century with a phenomenal 53 off 31 deliveries. The innings, however, concluded with a breathtaking cameo from Lokesh Bam, who delivered late fireworks with an unbeaten 39 off a mere 12 balls, an innings peppered with 4 maximums and 2 fours—also a personal T20I best. Captain Rohit Paudel steered the innings to its formidable close, remaining 21 not out. Samoa's bowlers, including Darius Weiser and Daniel Burgess, each managed one wicket in the face of the onslaught.
Clinical Bowling Unit Seals the Deal
Defending the imposing target, Nepal's bowlers were ruthless and clinical. They ensured Samoa's chase never truly began, dismantling the batting line-up to restrict them to just 87 for 7 in their full 20 overs. The spin wizardry of Lalit Narayan Rajbanshi was the standout performance, as he spun a web to claim figures of 3 wickets for a meagre 13 runs, including a maiden over. Crucial support came from veterans Sandeep Lamichhane, Karan KC, and even Captain Paudel, who chipped in with vital breakthroughs. While Sion Solia offered a solitary resistance with 40 runs, the complete lack of meaningful partnerships and the constant tumble of wickets ensured Nepal coasted to a comfortable, title-winning victory.
A New Chapter for Nepali Cricket
This triumph is a profound moment for Nepali cricket. Finishing as the only unbeaten side with 10 points from five matches, this title validates years of hard work, grit, and perseverance. Nepal now looks forward to their third T20 World Cup appearance, having previously featured in the 2014 edition and already secured their spot for the 2024 tournament. They now join Oman and the UAE in qualifying for the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held from February 6 to March 8 next year. This victory is a powerful symbol of progression —a clear signal that Nepali cricket is stepping onto the global stage with increasing confidence and maturity. What's next for this unstoppable side?
