On September 27, 2025, Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025 became a landmark moment in cricket history as Nepal achieved a stunning 19-run victory over the two-time T20 World Cup champions at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. For a nation accustomed to battling as an underdog, this triumph marked Nepal’s first-ever win against a Full Member nation across all formats, a feat celebrated with a lap of honor around the ground. Led by the inspiring Rohit Paudel, Nepal outplayed West Indies in every facet—batting, bowling, and fielding—turning a seemingly routine match into a historic upset that reverberated across the cricketing world.
This victory wasn’t just about runs and wickets; it was a beacon of hope for Nepalese fans amidst domestic challenges, as Paudel dedicated the win to “martyrs back home.” For cricket enthusiasts visiting IPL Star, this 3,000+ word article dives deep into the match’s thrilling moments, key performances, tactical brilliance, and its broader significance. From scorecards to player quotes, we’ve got it all covered to keep you glued to this epic tale of Nepal’s cricketing ascent.
Introduction: A Glorious Day for Nepal Cricket
Imagine the electric atmosphere at Sharjah Cricket Stadium as Nepal, a rising Associate nation, took on the mighty West Indies, a team with a storied T20 legacy. On September 27, 2025, Nepal scripted history in the Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025, defeating the Caribbean giants by 19 runs in a match that showcased their grit, skill, and unwavering spirit. This wasn’t just a game; it was Nepal’s first bilateral series against a Full Member and their first T20I win against a Test-playing nation, surpassing their 2014 victory over Afghanistan (then an Associate).
The match, part of the West Indies vs Nepal in UAE 2025 series, saw Nepal post 148/8 before restricting West Indies to 129/9. With standout performances from Rohit Paudel, Kushal Bhurtel, and a fielding unit led by Dipendra Singh Airee, Nepal outclassed a second-string West Indies side featuring four debutants. This article breaks down every pivotal moment, analyzes the tactics, and explores why this Nepal cricket upset is a game-changer for Associate nations. Stick around for detailed stats, player insights, and what’s next in this thrilling series!
Match Summary: Nepal Beats West Indies in a Thriller
Toss and Pitch Conditions
West Indies captain Akeal Hosein won the toss and elected to bowl, banking on Sharjah’s spin-friendly pitch to restrict Nepal. Known for its low bounce and assistance to spinners, Sharjah Cricket Stadium (capacity: 16,000) has an average T20I score of around 150, making it a venue where disciplined bowling often triumphs. The evening conditions favored seamers early, but the pitch slowed as the game progressed, setting the stage for Nepal’s spinners to shine.
Nepal’s Innings: Building a Competitive 148/8
Nepal’s batting got off to a rocky start after Hosein’s decision to field. Openers Kushal Bhurtel (6 off 11) was stumped off an arm ball from Hosein, and Aasif Sheikh (3 off 4) fell to Jason Holder’s pace, leaving Nepal at 12/2 in 3.1 overs. Captain Rohit Paudel (38 off 35, 3 fours, 1 six) and Kushal Malla (30 off 21, 2 fours, 2 sixes) steadied the innings with a vital 58-run partnership off 45 balls.
Malla’s aggression, including a towering six off Obed McCoy, gave Nepal momentum, reaching 68/2 by the 10th over. However, debutant legspinner Navin Bidaisee (3/29) struck, dismissing Paudel, Malla, and Gulsan Jha (22 off 16, 2 sixes). Holder’s devastating 19th over (3 wickets, 4/20 overall) kept Nepal in check, but contributions from Dipendra Singh Airee (17 off 19) and Sundeep Jora (9 off 6) pushed Nepal to 148/8. West Indies’ fielding lapses, including dropped catches, added 10 extras (all wides) to the total.
West Indies’ Chase: Stifled by Spin and Fielding
Chasing 149, West Indies started with a boundary from Kyle Mayers, but Bhurtel’s direct-hit run-out in the second over (5 off 8) set the tone. Debutant Ackeem Auguste (15 off 7, 2 sixes) briefly counterattacked before Nandan Yadav (1/6) struck. At 40/2 after the powerplay, West Indies seemed on course, but Nepal’s spinners—Paudel (1/20), Lalit Rajbanshi (1/6), and Bhurtel (2/17)—choked the middle overs, conceding just 16 runs in overs 7-10.
Airee’s brilliant run-out of Keacy Carty (16 off 15) and Holder’s dismissal (5 off 7) off Bhurtel left West Indies reeling at 76/6. Despite late resistance from Bidaisee (22 off 25) and Fabian Allen (19 off 14), the required rate soared to 14+ in the death overs. Hosein’s 18 off 9 (1 four, 2 sixes) came too late, as Karan KC (1/17) sealed the deal. Nepal’s fielding, barring two drops in the 18th over, was exceptional, with six bowlers taking wickets.
Table 1: Match Scorecard Summary
| Team | Score | Overs | Run Rate | Top Scorer | Best Bowler |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nepal | 148/8 | 20 | 7.40 | Rohit Paudel (38) | Kushal Bhurtel (2/17) |
| West Indies | 129/9 | 20 | 6.45 | Navin Bidaisee (22) | Jason Holder (4/20) |
Table 2: Fall of Wickets
| Team | Wicket | Score | Over | Batsman |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nepal | 1st | 8 | 2.1 | Kushal Bhurtel |
| 2nd | 12 | 3.1 | Aasif Sheikh | |
| 3rd | 70 | 10.4 | Kushal Malla | |
| 4th | 89 | 12.4 | Rohit Paudel | |
| 5th | 119 | 16.5 | Gulsan Jha | |
| West Indies | 1st | 5 | 1.2 | Kyle Mayers |
| 2nd | 32 | 4.5 | Ackeem Auguste | |
| 3rd | 47 | 7.4 | Jewel Andrew | |
| 4th | 53 | 8.5 | Amir Jangoo | |
| 5th | 68 | 12.2 | Keacy Carty |
Table 3: Powerplay Stats
| Team | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Run Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nepal | 0.1–6 | 34 | 2 | 5.67 |
| West Indies | 0.1–6 | 40 | 2 | 6.67 |
Key Performances: Heroes of the Nepal Cricket Upset
Batting Standouts
- Rohit Paudel (Nepal, Player of the Match): Scoring 38 off 35 (3 fours, 1 six), Paudel anchored Nepal’s innings, guiding them through early losses. His calm leadership and tactical bowling changes were pivotal.
- Kushal Malla (Nepal): Malla’s 30 off 21 (2 fours, 2 sixes) injected momentum, with his six off McCoy showcasing Nepal’s power-hitting depth.
- Navin Bidaisee (West Indies): The debutant’s 22 off 25 (1 four, 1 six) was West Indies’ best effort, though his hit-wicket dismissal added a quirky footnote.
Bowling Brilliance
- Jason Holder (West Indies): Holder’s 4/20, including three wickets in the 19th over, was a masterclass in pace bowling, nearly keeping Nepal under 140.
- Navin Bidaisee (West Indies): The legspinner’s 3/29 on debut disrupted Nepal’s middle order, showcasing his potential.
- Kushal Bhurtel (Nepal): Taking 2/17, including Holder’s wicket, Bhurtel’s off-spin was economical and decisive.
- Lalit Rajbanshi (Nepal): With 1/6 in 2 overs, Rajbanshi’s tight spell choked West Indies’ middle order.
Fielding Impact
Nepal’s fielding was the game-changer, with two run-outs (Mayers by Bhurtel, Carty by Airee) breaking West Indies’ backbone. Airee’s bullet throw to dismiss Carty was a highlight, while Nepal’s overall sharpness outshone West Indies’ inconsistent efforts, marked by jaw-dropping catches and costly drops.
Table 4: Key Individual Stats
| Player | Team | Batting | Bowling | Fielding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rohit Paudel | Nepal | 38 (35, 3×4, 1×6) | 1/20 (3 overs) | 1 catch |
| Kushal Bhurtel | Nepal | 6 (11, 1×4) | 2/17 (4 overs) | 1 run-out |
| Navin Bidaisee | West Indies | 22 (25, 1×4, 1×6) | 3/29 (4 overs) | 1 catch |
| Jason Holder | West Indies | 5 (7) | 4/20 (4 overs) | 1 catch |
| Dipendra Singh Airee | Nepal | 17 (19, 1×6) | 1/20 (3 overs) | 1 run-out |
Tactical Analysis: How Nepal Stunned West Indies in Sharjah
Nepal’s Masterplan
Nepal’s strategy was a textbook example of Associate cricket brilliance. Their spin-heavy bowling attack (7 wickets at an economy of 4.85) suffocated West Indies, with Paudel, Bhurtel, and Rajbanshi conceding just 16 runs in overs 7-10. The fielding unit, led by Airee and Bhurtel, executed two game-changing run-outs, while six batters hitting at least one six ensured a competitive total. Nepal’s ability to adapt to the slow pitch and maintain pressure through dot balls (West Indies played 62 vs Nepal’s 58) was key.
West Indies’ Missteps
West Indies, fielding four debutants, struggled with inexperience. Their batting faltered against spin, with only one partnership exceeding 20 runs (27 between Jangoo and Auguste). Poor strike rotation and over-reliance on big hits saw the required rate climb to 14+ in the death overs. Fielding lapses, including multiple dropped catches, gifted Nepal extra runs, while their bowlers (except Holder and Bidaisee) lacked consistency.
Pitch and Venue Insights
Sharjah’s pitch, known for aiding spinners, played into Nepal’s hands. Historical T20I data shows teams defending 150+ often win here, and Nepal’s 148/8 ranks among their lowest defended totals. The pitch’s low bounce and grip favored Nepal’s spinners, who outbowled West Indies’ pace-heavy attack.
Table 5: Bowling Comparison
| Team | Spin Overs | Spin Wickets | Spin Economy | Pace Overs | Pace Wickets | Pace Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nepal | 12 | 7 | 4.85 | 8 | 2 | 7.62 |
| West Indies | 8 | 4 | 6.75 | 12 | 4 | 7.75 |
Table 6: Dot Ball Analysis
| Team | Dot Balls Faced | Percentage of Innings |
|---|---|---|
| Nepal | 58 | 48.33% |
| West Indies | 62 | 51.67% |
Historical Context: Nepal’s First Win Against a Full Member
This Nepal T20I victory in Sharjah marks their first win against a Full Member in 180 internationals, a milestone that eclipses close calls like their near-upset of South Africa in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Previously, Nepal defeated Afghanistan (2014) and Hong Kong (2014) when both were Associates. For West Indies, this is their third T20I loss to an Associate, following defeats to Scotland (2022) and Ireland (2014).
Table 7: Nepal’s Lowest Defended T20I Totals
| Score | Opponent | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 117/8 | Oman | Al Amerat | 2022 |
| 141/5 | Afghanistan | Chattogram | 2014 |
| 148/8 | West Indies | Sharjah | 2025 |
| 149/8 | Hong Kong | Chattogram | 2014 |
This win, dedicated by Paudel to Nepal’s people amid domestic protests, underscores cricket’s role as a unifying force. It also highlights the growing competitiveness of Associate nations, potentially encouraging more bilateral series.
Player and Captain Quotes: Voices from the Match
- Rohit Paudel (Nepal Captain, Player of the Match): “It’s a long wait to beat a Test-playing country, and to do it in a series we’ve hosted in UAE feels great. We dedicate this to the martyrs back home. It’s just the beginning.”
- Kushal Bhurtel (Nepal): “Beating West Indies, one of the toughest T20 teams, feels amazing. Our bowlers and fielders were outstanding.”
- Akeal Hosein (West Indies Captain): “Nepal fielded well, and their run-outs broke our batting. We need to set a better platform to chase such totals.”
Implications and Series Outlook
Nepal’s victory gives them a 1-0 lead, with the second T20I on September 29, 2025, offering a chance to clinch the series. West Indies must address their batting inexperience and fielding lapses, as Hosein noted the need for a stronger top-order platform. For Associate cricket, this upset could pave the way for more opportunities, aligning with the ICC’s push for inclusivity.
Player Ratings:
- Rohit Paudel: 9/10 (batting and leadership)
- Kushal Bhurtel: 8/10 (all-round impact)
- Jason Holder: 8/10 (bowling heroics)
- Dipendra Singh Airee: 7.5/10 (fielding and batting)
Explore our Nepal vs West Indies T20I Series 2025 Preview Guide
Conclusion: A New Dawn for Nepal Cricket
The Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025 wasn’t just a match—it was a statement. Nepal’s 19-run triumph over a cricketing powerhouse showcased their potential to compete at the highest level. As Paudel said, “It’s just the beginning.” For fans on IPL Star, this victory is a reminder of cricket’s unpredictability and charm.
What’s your take on Nepal’s historic win? Share your thoughts in the comments, follow the series on Fancode, and join us for live updates on the 2nd T20I. Stay tuned to IPL Star for more cricket news and insights!
FAQs: Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025
1. What happened in the Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025? Nepal achieved a historic 19-run victory over West Indies in the 1st T20I on September 27, 2025, at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Nepal scored 148/8, led by Rohit Paudel’s 38, and restricted West Indies to 129/9 with stellar bowling and fielding, marking their first win against a Full Member nation.
2. Why is Nepal’s win against West Indies considered historic? Nepal’s 19-run triumph in the Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025 was their first victory against a Full Member nation in 180 internationals. This Nepal cricket upset against the two-time T20 World Cup champions highlights their growing prowess and boosts Associate cricket’s credibility.
3. Who were the key players in Nepal’s victory over West Indies? Rohit Paudel (38 runs, 1/20) earned Player of the Match for his all-round performance, while Kushal Bhurtel (2/17, run-out) and Dipendra Singh Airee (run-out) shone. For West Indies, Jason Holder (4/20) and Navin Bidaisee (3/29, 22 runs) stood out in the Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025.
4. How did Nepal’s fielding impact the match? Nepal’s fielding was pivotal, with run-outs of Kyle Mayers and Keacy Carty disrupting West Indies’ chase. Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025 Despite two drops, their sharpness, led by Airee and Bhurtel, was a game-changer in the Nepal T20I victory in Sharjah.
5. What role did spin bowling play in Nepal’s win? Nepal’s spinners, including Bhurtel (2/17), Rajbanshi (1/6), and Paudel (1/20), took 7 wickets at a 4.85 economy, choking West Indies’ middle overs. This strategy was key to the Nepal beats West Indies outcome.
6. What was the significance of Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the match? Sharjah’s spin-friendly pitch, with an average T20I score of ~150, favored Nepal’s spinners. Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025 The venue’s history of defended totals aligned with Nepal’s 148/8, making it ideal for their West Indies vs Nepal Sharjah 2025 strategy.
7. How does this win compare to Nepal’s past performances? This Nepal first win against a Full Member surpasses their 2014 victories over Associates like Afghanistan. Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025 It’s their third-lowest defended T20I total, following 117/8 vs Oman (2022).
8. What did Rohit Paudel say about the victory? Paudel dedicated the Nepal vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025 win to Nepal’s people, saying, “It’s a long wait to beat a Test-playing country… It’s just the beginning,” reflecting its emotional and historic weight.
9. What’s next for Nepal in the West Indies series? The second T20I on September 29, 2025, in Sharjah offers Nepal a chance to clinch the series. A win would further cement their reputation after the Nepal beats West Indies upset.
10. How does this upset impact Associate cricket? The Nepal cricket upset in Sharjah signals the rising competitiveness of Associate nations, potentially encouraging more bilateral series. It’s a milestone for Nepal’s cricketing aspirations and global inclusivity.