Nepal Vs UAE, 2nd T20I: Kushal Bhurtel Shines As The Rhinos Level Series 1-1 With Comprehensive Win

Nepal produced a clinical all-round performance to defeat the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by eight wickets in the second T20I at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. With this victory, the hosts successfully leveled the two-match series 1-1, bouncing back from a rain-affected loss in the opener.

After winning the toss and electing to field, Nepal’s bowling unit justified the decision immediately. Hemant Dhami (2/20) provided early breakthroughs, removing Muhammad Waseem and Harpreet Singh for just 1 run between them.

Also Read: Nepal Vs UAE Highlights

However, it was the leg-spin of Sandeep Lamichhane that proved decisive. Lamichhane delivered a masterclass in control, conceding only 6 runs in his 4 overs while claiming 3 wickets. Despite a resilient maiden T20I fifty from Akshdeep Nath (53 not out) and a steady 32 from Muhammad Arfan, UAE was restricted to a modest 128/8 in their 20 overs.

The chase was a straightforward affair for Nepal, spearheaded by an aggressive Kushal Bhurtel. The opener remained unbeaten on 84 off 57 balls, smashing 12 boundaries and 2 sixes in a dominant display. Bhurtel anchored the innings, sharing a 50-run opening stand with Kushal Malla (19) before finishing the game alongside Dipendra Singh Airee (23 not out). Nepal reached the target of 129 in just 15.5 overs, winning with 25 balls to spare.

Nepal Vs UAE, 2nd T20I: Toss Update

Nepal have won the toss and have opted to field.

Nepal Vs UAE, 2nd T20I: Playing XIs

United Arab Emirates (Playing XI): Adeeb Usmani(w), Muhammad Waseem(c), Alishan Sharafu, Harpreet Singh Bhatia, Akshdeep Nath, Sohaib Khan, Nilansh Keswani, Khuzaima Tanveer, Muhammad Zuhaib, Muhammad Arfan, Ajay Kumar

Nepal (Playing XI): Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Lokesh Bam(w), Dipendra Singh Airee(c), Santosh Yadav, Aarif Sheikh, Gulsan Jha, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, Shahab Alam, Hemant Dhami