Al Amerat, Oman – Nepal secured a vital five-wicket victory over Japan in Match 8 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier on Friday, October 10, 2025. The win, following their earlier success against Kuwait, confirms Nepal's strong position as they head into the Super Six stage of the tournament.
Japan's Innings: Captain's Knock Followed by Collapse
After Nepal's captain Rohit Paudel won the toss and elected to field, Japan posted a target of 132 runs, finishing their 20 overs at 131 for 8.
- Captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming anchored the Japanese innings with a fine knock, scoring 60 runs off 46 balls (5 fours, 3 sixes). He was supported by Eesam Rahman who added 31 off 25 balls.
- The pair put together a crucial 71-run partnership, stabilizing the innings after an early wicket.
- However, the Japanese middle order suffered a significant collapse, losing six wickets for just 34 runs after reaching 97 for 2 in the 13th over.
- Nepal's bowling was clinical, with Gulshan Jha leading the attack by taking 2 wickets for 20 runs in his four overs, including the crucial wicket of the Japanese skipper.
- Leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane also impressed with 2 wickets for 25 runs.
Nepal's Chase: Quick Start and Calm Finish
Chasing a modest target of 132, Nepal completed the job in 18.0 overs, scoring 132 for 5.
- Nepal got off to a quick start, largely thanks to opener Aasif Sheikh, who scored a rapid 38 off just 21 balls, including four sixes, before falling in the 8th over.
- Despite a minor wobble in the middle where Nepal lost a few quick wickets, falling to 90 for 5, the chase was expertly managed by the lower-middle order.
- Gulshan Jha, following his bowling heroics, was instrumental with the bat, remaining unbeaten on 28 runs off 20 balls and sealing the victory with a six and a four in the 18th over.
- He was partnered by Dipendra Singh Airee, who finished on an unbeaten 14.
- Japan's bowlers fought hard, with Shoma Slater taking 2 wickets for 22 runs.
The victory not only maintains Nepal's winning momentum but also ensures they carry crucial points into the Super Six stage of the qualifier tournament. Gulshan Jha was named the Player of the Match for his superb all-round performance.