Nepal and Oman became the first two teams from the Asia/East Asia-Pacific Qualifier to secure their berths for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, confirming top-three finishes in the Super Six stage of the tournament.
With the UAE’s victory over Samoa, both Nepal and Oman were mathematically assured of progressing, as the Emiratis — currently third in the standings — can no longer overtake either side in the qualification race.
Nail-Biting Finishes Define The Super Six Stage
The Super Six phase has been nothing short of dramatic, with five of the first six matches decided in the final over. Amid the chaos, Nepal and Oman held their nerve in high-pressure moments to seal early qualification — a testament to their composure and consistency.
Nepal’s Nerves Of Steel And Lamichhane’s Magic
Unbeaten in the group stage, Nepal carried two points into the Super Six and built on that momentum with two thrilling, last-ball victories.
In a tense clash against the UAE, Dipendra Singh Airee was struck for six by Dhruv Parashar, leaving just three runs needed from the final three balls. But Nepal refused to crumble — a brilliant catch by Sundeep Jora, followed by two dramatic run-outs, turned the tide and handed them victory.
A day later, Rohit Paudel’s side conjured another Houdini act. Defending 148 against Qatar, Nepal looked second-best as their opponents raced to 97/1 in 12 overs. Then came Sandeep Lamichhane’s stunning spell of 5 for 18, triggering a collapse that saw Qatar fall short by ten runs. The leg-spinner’s brilliance sealed a memorable win and confirmed Nepal’s place at the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Oman’s Steady Rise And Clinical Finishing
Oman mirrored Nepal’s composure and form, also carrying two points into the Super Six and striking early. They first defended 172 with ease against Qatar, before edging the UAE in a tense finish.
Chasing in that encounter, Oman relied on Nadeem Khan’s late flourish — a four and a six off consecutive deliveries against Muhammad Arfan — to seal victory with two balls to spare. The result ensured Oman’s qualification and extended their reputation as one of the most dependable sides in associate cricket.
UAE Eye Final Berth, Qatar Cling To Hope
The UAE’s convincing win over Samoa kept them in contention for the final qualification spot, setting up a decisive showdown with Japan on October 16. The Emiratis currently occupy third place and control their own destiny.
Qatar, however, still have a slim chance. They must beat Samoa and hope other results go their way, while also improving their net run rate to sneak through.
End Of The Road For Samoa
Samoa, despite pulling off a stunning upset over Papua New Guinea earlier in the tournament, have bowed out following consecutive defeats. Their spirited campaign, however, left an impression on the regional stage and showcased the growing depth of cricket across the Pacific.
