By Anas Ahmed 
Gulshan Jha Inspires Nepal to Narrow Win
Nepal continued their strong start in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier 2025, edging past a determined Japan side by five wickets in a thrilling contest at Al Amarat Cricket Ground.
All-rounder Gulshan Jha played a starring role, taking 2/20 with the ball and then guiding Nepal’s chase with an unbeaten 28 off 20 balls, ensuring the team crossed the line with two overs to spare.
Japan Post Competitive Total
Winning the toss, Japan opted to bat and put up a fighting 131/8 in 20 overs, led by captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, who scored a composed 60 off 46 balls. His innings included five fours and three sixes, anchoring Japan’s innings amidst regular wickets.
Support came from Eesam Rahman (31 off 25), whose aggressive strokeplay added crucial momentum in the middle overs. However, Nepal’s bowlers maintained tight lines, never allowing Japan to dominate.
Sandeep Lamichhane (2/25) showed his class with the ball, while Sompal Kami (1/20) and Nandan Yadav (1/16) provided consistent pressure. Gulshan Jha’s double strike, including the crucial wicket of Kadowaki-Fleming, was pivotal in halting Japan’s progress late in the innings.
Nepal’s Chase Led by Jha and Sheikh
In reply, Nepal’s innings had its share of nervous moments. Opener Aasif Sheikh provided early momentum with a brisk 38 off 21 balls, including four towering sixes. Kushal Bhurtel (21 off 21) supported him well in a quick opening stand.
However, Japan’s bowlers fought back as Shoma Slater (2/22) and Reo Sakurano-Thomas (1/28) kept the pressure on. With wickets falling at regular intervals, the game seemed poised for a tight finish.
Captain Rohit Paudel (18 off 19) steadied the innings before falling lbw, leaving Nepal at 90/5. From there, Dipendra Singh Airee (14)* and Gulshan Jha (28)* combined in a calm, unbeaten 42-run partnership, guiding Nepal home in 18 overs.
Brief Scores
Japan: 131/8 (Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming 60, Eesam Rahman 31; Gulshan Jha 2/20, Sandeep Lamichhane 2/25)
Nepal: 132/5 in 18 overs (Aasif Sheikh 38, Gulshan Jha 28*; Shoma Slater 2/22, Reo Sakurano-Thomas 1/28)
Result: Nepal won by 5 wickets
Player of the Match: Gulshan Jha (Nepal)