ISLAMABAD: Nepal and Oman have booked their places in the 2026 T20 World Cup, to be held in India and Sri Lanka, as the Asia-EAP Qualifier reaches its closing stages in Al Amerat.
Their qualification was confirmed after the UAE’s 77-run win over Samoa ensured both teams would finish in the top three of the Super Six standings.
Both teams were guaranteed qualification after UAE’s impressive 77-run victory over Samoa earlier in the day, ensuring that they would finish in the top three of the Super Six table.
Currently, Nepal and Oman sit at the top, with net run rate being the only difference between the two sides. UAE, with four points, are third and still in contention to secure the final spot for next year’s tournament.
With Nepal and Oman already confirmed, all eyes now turn to UAE, who will face Japan in a crucial fixture on October 16. A win would see them progress to the T20 World Cup, while a loss could see their qualification hopes dashed.
Stellar Performances Shine Through
Wristspinner Sandeep Lamichhane has been the standout performer for Nepal, leading the charge with the ball.
Lamichhane has taken 10 wickets in four innings at a remarkable average of 9.40 and an economy rate of under six.
His exceptional performance against Qatar, where he claimed 5 wickets for 18 runs, was key in Nepal’s victory, helping dismiss Qatar for just 142 in a chase of 148.
On the other hand, Jiten Ramanandi of Oman has been a key figure in his team’s success. The left-arm seamer is the fourth-highest wicket-taker of the tournament with seven scalps from four innings at an economy rate of 5.90.
Ramanandi’s impressive form also shone during the Asia Cup, where he dismissed India’s Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma in key moments.
Final Showdown for UAE
With qualification locked in for Nepal and Oman, the final spot remains in play. UAE’s next match against Japan is a must-win for them.
Should they win, they will join Nepal and Oman in the 2026 T20 World Cup, ensuring representation from the Asia-EAP Qualifier.
Their chances of qualification hinge on their performance against Japan, a team that has shown resilience but remains an underdog in the tournament.
Looking Ahead
As the final rounds of the Asia-EAP Qualifier unfold, all eyes will be on the battle for the remaining World Cup spot. Nepal and Oman have impressed with their consistent performances, but UAE’s fate is still in their hands.
The next few days promise to offer high-stakes drama as the final piece of the puzzle falls into place for next year’s highly anticipated T20 World Cup.
