Kathmandu: Nepal is just one victory away from securing a place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka next year. The team faces Qatar tonight in the Super Six stage of the Asia-East Asia Pacific Qualifiers taking place in Muscat, Oman.

The high-stakes match is scheduled to begin at 8:45 p.m. (Nepal time). A win against Qatar will almost guarantee Nepal a spot in the global tournament.

Thrilling win over UAE brings Nepal closer

Nepal dramatically defeated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by just one run on Sunday, a result that pushed them closer to qualification.

Batting first after winning the toss, Nepal posted 140 runs for six wickets in 20 overs, led by Asif Sheikh’s 51 off 47 balls.

In reply, the UAE fell short by one run, managing 139 for nine wickets despite being in a winning position heading into the final over.

Dipendra’s magic in the final over

Bowler Dipendra Singh Airee held his nerve in the final over, conceding only 8 runs when 10 were needed.

He gave away a single in the first two deliveries before Dhruv Parasar hit a six off the third ball. However, Nepal made a stunning comeback — taking three wickets in three balls.

Parasar was caught on the boundary, Haider Ali was run out, and on the final delivery, Junaid Siddiqui was run out by captain Rohit Paudel’s throw, sealing a memorable one-run victory for Nepal.

Nepal, Oman level on points

With the win, Nepal and Oman are tied at four points each in the Super Six standings.

Tonight’s match against Qatar is being seen as decisive — a victory will virtually ensure Nepal’s qualification for the T20 World Cup 2026 to be held in India and Sri Lanka in February–March.