Nepal register their first-ever victory against a Full Member side, defeating West Indies by 19 runs
Rohit Paudel (38) and Kushal Malla (30) anchored Nepal’s innings
Nepal’s spinners and seamers shared wickets evenly, choking West Indies’ chase
Nepal made history by defeating the West Indies by 19 runs in the first T20I at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on September 27, 2025. This victory marked Nepal's first-ever win against a Full Member side across formats. Batting first, Nepal posted a competitive total of 148/8 in 20 overs. Rohit Paudel top-scored with 38 runs off 35 balls, while Kushal Malla contributed 30 runs from 21 balls. West Indies' Jason Holder was the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets for 20 runs, and Navin Bidaisee supported well with 3 wickets for 29 runs.
In response, the West Indies struggled to build partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals. Navin Bidaisee fought valiantly, scoring 22 runs, but the required run rate proved too steep. Kushal Bhurtel was the pick of Nepal's bowlers, taking 2 wickets for 17 runs, supported by Lalit Rajbanshi, who claimed 1 wicket for 6 runs. Sompal Kami also contributed with a wicket, finishing with figures of 1/51.
Nepal's fielding was exceptional, with a memorable moment coming in the final over. Fabian Allen attempted a lofted shot off Dipendra Singh but was caught by Bhurtel, who leaped to take a stunning catch at long-off, ensuring Nepal's historic win. This victory not only secured Nepal's first win against a Full Member side but also set a positive tone for the remainder of the series.
Nepal Vs West Indies, 1st T20: Toss Update
West Indies won the toss and elected to bowl first.
Nepal Vs West Indies, 1st T20: Playing XIs
West Indies (Playing XI): Kyle Mayers, Ackeem Auguste, Keacy Carty, Amir Jangoo(w), Jewel Andrew, Jason Holder, Fabian Allen, Akeal Hosein(c), Navin Bidaisee, Obed McCoy, Ramon Simmonds
Nepal (Playing XI): Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh(w), Rohit Paudel(c), Sundeep Jora, Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Malla, Karan KC, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Lalit Rajbanshi
Nepal Vs West Indies, 1st T20: Live Score
The second match of the series will take place on September 29 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Nepal would like to win that match and seal the series while West Indies will look to make a comeback.