The Story of Nepal’s Historic T20 World Cup Win
February 17th, 2026, at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, became an unforgettable night for Nepal cricket. The Rhinos secured their first-ever T20 World Cup victory in dramatic style, defeating Scotland by 7 wickets. Needing 171 runs to win, Nepal chased it down with just three balls left, sending their passionate fans into wild celebrations.
Dipendra Singh Airee’s Record-Breaking Blitz
With Nepal wobbling at 87/3, Dipendra Singh Airee walked in and delivered an innings for the history books. Smashing an unbeaten 50 runs off just 23 balls, he played one of the most explosive finishes ever seen from an Associate nation. His knock, featuring three massive sixes and four boundaries, was pure power and control under pressure.
The game shifted decisively in the 16th over when Airee unleashed a brutal assault on Scottish bowler Michael Leask, hammering 20 runs off the over. Suddenly, the tough chase looked manageable. By the time he slammed the boundary to seal the win, Airee hadn’t just won the game; he’d become an instant national hero.
Turning Point: The Leask Over
Airee’s demolition of Michael Leask was crucial. Taking 20 runs off that single over transformed the momentum. It showed his fearless mindset and killer instinct, silencing the Scottish bowlers and electrifying the Nepali crowd.
Bowlers Set Up the Victory
Before Airee’s fireworks, Nepal’s bowlers laid the groundwork. Scotland looked set for a huge total (over 190) thanks to Michael Jones’ fast 71. But Nepal fought back hard. Experienced fast bowler Sompal Kami was the star, taking 3 wickets for just 25 runs. His spell included two key wickets in one over during the tense finalstages, choking Scotland’s run flow.
Young spinner Nandan Yadav chipped in with vital wickets in the middle overs, preventing Scotland from building big partnerships. Their combined discipline restricted Scotland to only 36 runs in the last five overs – a deficit that ultimately cost Scotland the match.
Sompal Kami’s Death Bowling Masterclass
Kami’s precise bowling at the death was game-changing. Removing set batsmen and limiting boundaries when Scotland wanted to accelerate proved he’s a master of high-pressure situations.
Fan Reactions: Joy, Respect, and Future Hopes
The historic win sparked massive excitement online and in the stadium. Cricket legends and fans showered praise on Nepal:
- Irfan Pathan: “Dipendra Singh Airee is a quality hitter. Does it again for Nepal.”
- Ashwin: “Nepal’s players deserve more exposure. Deep Airee is a quick learner.”
- Vikrant Gupta: “Nepal have been the most entertaining team! Believe me, by next World Cup, Nepal will do even better.”
- Melinda Farrell: “If I had to choose just 3 sides to watch… Scotland, Nepal and Netherlands.”
- Shubh Agarwal: “Airee has a record 9-ball fifty, but this 23-ball fifty means much more – Nepal’s first World Cup win.”
- CricketTimes.com: “History created! Nepal register their first-ever win at the T20 World Cup!”
The overwhelming message? Nepal’s thrilling victory wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. Fans and experts believe this talented team, fueled by heart and passion, has a bright future on the world stage.
