27th September 2025, Kathmandu
History was created at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium as Nepal registered a memorable 19-run victory over the West Indies in the opening match of the Unity Cup 2025 T20I series.
Nepal Beat West Indies
This landmark win marked Nepal’s first-ever bilateral T20I clash against a full ICC member nation, making it a historic night for Nepali cricket.
Toss and Match Setup
In a key pre-match moment, West Indies captain Akeal Hosein won the toss and opted to bowl first, citing Sharjah’s evening dew factor and the venue’s chasing-friendly record. Nepal, led by Rohit Paudel, was sent in to bat under the floodlights in their most high-profile series yet.
Nepal’s Innings – A Fighting Total
Nepal’s top order took on the challenge with grit. Skipper Rohit Paudel, along with experienced names like Dipendra Singh Airee and Kushal Bhurtel, guided Nepal to a competitive total. Despite disciplined spells from West Indian pacers, Nepal managed to keep the scoreboard ticking with aggressive stroke play in the middle overs.
The Sharjah pitch, known for assisting spin, became tricky as the innings progressed, but Nepal’s batters showed composure to push past a defendable target.
West Indies’ Chase – Nepali Bowlers Shine
Chasing under lights, the West Indies started confidently but soon ran into trouble against Nepal’s bowling attack. Sandeep Lamichhane’s leg-spin created early breakthroughs, while medium pacers maintained tight lines to build pressure.
West Indies’ power hitters, including Kyle Mayers and Jason Holder, attempted to take the game deep, but Nepal’s bowlers held their nerve. Dipendra Singh Airee and the death-over specialists ensured wickets fell at regular intervals, eventually bowling out the West Indies short of the target by 19 runs.
Significance of the Win
This historic result has lifted Nepalese cricket to new heights. For the Unity Cup 2025, the win not only sets the tone for the series but also provides Nepal with immense confidence ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Oman.
The victory showcased Nepal’s growing maturity at the international stage, with the team proving that they can compete and win against established cricketing giants.
Key Highlights:
Match: Unity Cup 2025, 1st T20I (Sharjah)
Toss: West Indies won, chose to bowl first
Result: Nepal won by 19 runs
Player Highlights: Rohit Paudel (captain’s knock), Dipendra Singh Airee (all-round display), Sandeep Lamichhane (crucial wickets)
Looking Ahead
With Nepal taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series, all eyes will be on the second game of the Unity Cup 2025. The West Indies will aim to bounce back strongly, while Nepal will look to ride their momentum and secure a historic series victory.
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