Nepal produced one of the most stunning performances in their cricketing history, dismantling the West Indies by 90 runs in the second T20I at Sharjah to take an unassailable 2–0 lead in the series. The result not only sealed a landmark series victory for the associate nation but also rewrote several records, underlining Nepal’s rapid rise in international cricket.
Batting first, Nepal were under early pressure after losing three wickets cheaply, slipping to 43/3 inside seven overs. But a superb counterattack followed, led by Aasif Sheikh, who anchored the innings with a composed 68 not out from 47 balls, and Sundeep Jora, who smashed 63 off 39. The pair added a match-defining century partnership, rescuing Nepal and propelling the team to a commanding 173/6 in their 20 overs. Their balanced approach — Sheikh steady at one end and Jora aggressive at the other — ensured momentum shifted firmly in Nepal’s favor.
In reply, the West Indies endured a complete batting collapse. Nepal’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure from the outset, with Mohammad Aadil Alam claiming 4/24 and Kushal Bhurtel ripping through the top order with figures of 3/16. The Caribbean side crumbled to just 83 all out in 17.1 overs, one of their lowest T20I totals against any side and a shocking display against an associate nation. Not a single batter managed to build a meaningful partnership, and the team’s shot selection came under scrutiny as wickets tumbled at regular intervals.
The 90-run margin was the biggest ever victory by an Associate member over a Full Member in T20 internationals, a statistic that underscores just how dominant Nepal were. It also marked the first time Nepal had clinched a bilateral T20I series against a Test-playing nation, further elevating the significance of the achievement.
Captain Rohit Paudel praised his team’s composure and discipline, calling the win “a historic day for Nepal cricket.” He highlighted the team’s growing self-belief and stressed that this was the product of years of dedication and improvement at both domestic and international levels. For Nepal’s passionate fan base, this win provided a moment of immense pride and validation that their team is ready to challenge the established order.
For West Indies, the defeat was a rude awakening. Long celebrated as pioneers of T20 cricket with multiple world titles, they appeared listless and out of rhythm. The lack of application from senior players and inability to adapt to conditions will raise tough questions about leadership and preparation, especially given their rich history in the shortest format.
With the series already secured, Nepal will approach the third and final match with the possibility of a whitewash firmly in sight. Beyond this series, however, the broader message is clear: Nepal are no longer just outsiders capable of springing surprises — they are a team capable of outplaying and overwhelming even the biggest names in cricket. This landmark victory not only shattered records but also signaled the dawn of a new era for associate nations in the global game.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025