Sandeep Lamichhane’s Magical Spell Leads Nepal to Thrilling 5-Run Win Over Qatar in ICC Asia Qualifier

In a pulsating encounter at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, Nepal defeated Qatar by 5 runs to continue their unbeaten run in the ICC T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifiers 2025. The victory came thanks to captain Rohit Paudel’s composed half-century and Sandeep Lamichhane’s magical 5-wicket spell, which turned the tide when the game seemed all but lost.

Chasing 148, Qatar looked firmly in control at 97/1, with openers Imal Liyanage (56 off 35) and Zubair Ali (52 off 55) stitching together a 79-run partnership. But their dominance faded as soon as Lamichhane entered the attack. The leg-spinner triggered a stunning collapse, with Qatar losing their final nine wickets for just 45 runs, folding for 142 in 19.5 overs.

Lamichhane Match-Winning Spell

Sandeep Lamichhane produced one of his finest spells in Nepal colors, finishing with 5/18 in 3.5 overs, dismantling Qatar’s middle and lower order. His wickets included key batters Imal Liyanage, Muhammad Asim, and Shahzaib Jamil, sealing a remarkable comeback for Nepal.

“Sandeep showed his class again when the team needed him most,” said a delighted Rohit Paudel after the game.

🚨 Sandeep Lamichhane shines when it matters most! ❤️🇳🇵

He took 5 wickets for just 18 runs in 3.5 overs against Qatar, and rightly Player of the Match for match-winning performance! pic.twitter.com/hBpxHLJCxP

— ICC Asia Cricket (@ICCAsiaCricket) October 14, 2025

Earlier, Nepal were restricted to 147/9 after losing early wickets. Skipper Rohit Paudel led from the front with a classy 58 off 41 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. Dipendra Singh Airee supported him with a handy 26 off 22 balls, while Sompal Kami added late fireworks with 14 off 9 balls.

For Qatar, Mirza Mohammad Baig (3/29) and Dani Archer (3/22) bowled impressively, ensuring Nepal didn’t run away with the score.

With this win, Nepal remained unbeaten in the Super Six stage, solidifying their position as one of the tournament favorites to qualify for the ICC Men T20 World Cup 2026.

Match Summary