Unity Cup 2025, Match 1 LIVE: West Indies Win Toss, Opt to Bowl Against Nepal in Historic T20I
27th September 2025, Kathmandu
History is being made in Sharjah as the much-anticipated Unity Cup 2025 T20I series kicks off with Match 1 between Nepal (NEP) and the West Indies (WI).
Unity Cup 2025 Match
In a crucial early development, West Indies captain Akeal Hosein won the toss and elected to field first under the floodlights at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Nepal, led by Rohit Paudel, will now bat first in this landmark fixture, marking their first-ever bilateral T20I series against a full ICC member.
Key Match Details: Toss & Playing Conditions
The decision by the West Indies to bowl first is a familiar one at the Sharjah venue, where chasing teams often benefit from the evening dew factor and the knowledge of a target.
Detail Status
Match Unity Cup 2025, 1st T20I (Match 1)
Toss Result West Indies won the toss
Decision West Indies elected to field
First Innings Nepal to bat first
Venue Sharjah Cricket Stadium, UAE
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The match holds significant importance for both sides. For Nepal, this series, named the ‘Unity Cup’ to inspire national cohesion, offers invaluable experience against a two-time T20 World Cup champion side. The team will be looking to its experienced players like Sandeep Lamichhane, Dipendra Singh Airee, and captain Rohit Paudel to set a formidable total.
Nepal Ready for the Challenge
Nepal comes into this contest with a point to prove. The team recently showcased its competitive spirit against top-tier nations and views the three-match T20I series as a crucial preparation step before the upcoming T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Oman.
The opening challenge for the Rhinos will be navigating the initial powerplay and putting runs on the board in conditions that can favor spin as the game progresses.
West Indies’ Strategy and Squad Depth
The West Indies, while favorites, have brought a squad mix of seasoned campaigners (like Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers) and exciting young talent.
Captain Akeal Hosein will rely on his quick bowlers to exploit the conditions early on, aiming to restrict the Nepali top order before the spinners take over.
The decision to bowl first indicates confidence in their deep batting lineup to chase any target set by the energetic Nepal side.
For more: Unity Cup 2025 Match
