On September 27, 2025, Nepal cricket made history with its first-ever T20 international win against a full ICC Test-playing nation, the West Indies. This landmark victory took place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, where Nepal defeated the Caribbean side by 19 runs, earning a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The significance of this win stretched far beyond the boundary ropes, as Nepal’s captain Rohit Paudel dedicated the memorable triumph to the martyrs of recent Gen Z protests, who had lost their lives standing up for their beliefs.
Key Batting Performances
nepal vs wi
The match began with the West Indies winning the toss and electing to field. Nepal’s innings started shakily with early wickets falling; however, the middle order stabilized the team’s efforts. Rohit Paudel led from the front, scoring a crucial 38 runs off 35 balls. His determination inspired support from Kusal Malla, who scored 30 runs from 21 deliveries, and Gulsan Jha, contributing a lively 22 runs off 16 balls. Despite a late-order collapse triggered by West Indies leg-spinner Navin Bidaisee, Nepal managed to reach a respectable total of 148 runs for the loss of eight wickets.
Discipline in Bowling
The West Indies sought to chase the target but were kept in check by Nepal’s disciplined bowling attack. Jason Holder impressed with his four wickets for 20 runs, but it was Nepal’s bowlers who maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings to secure a historic victory. This remarkable performance highlighted Nepal’s growing prowess on the international cricket stage.
A Tribute to Gen Z Protest Martyrs
During the post-match ceremony, Rohit Paudel expressed deep emotion as he dedicated the win to the young protesters of Nepal’s Gen Z movement. Aware of the recent turbulent times in his country, Paudel shared his hope that this success would bring joy to the people of Nepal and stand as a symbol of resilience and hope. “It’s just the beginning, a lot more to come,” the 23-year-old captain affirmed, signaling Nepal’s cricket ambitions beyond this landmark win.
Significance of the Victory
This victory is momentous not only for being Nepal’s first triumph over a Test-playing nation in T20 cricket but also as an emblem of national pride. It reflects the spirit of a country rising in the global cricket arena, fueled by determination and unity. For Nepalese cricket fans and supporters worldwide, this is a day to celebrate the progress of the sport and the inspiring connection between cricket and social consciousness.
Looking Ahead
As Nepal looks forward to the upcoming matches in the series, this historic win stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of sport to unite and uplift a nation in challenging times