Kuwait take on Nepal in the third fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier at Al Amerat Cricket Ground. Both teams enter the contest with contrasting recent form — Nepal flying high after a statement T20I series win over the West Indies, while Kuwait look to rediscover momentum following a mixed run. With spin-friendly conditions and two evenly matched bowling units, this clash could go down to the wire.
Match Preview
Nepal arrive in Oman full of confidence after defeating the West Indies in a historic T20I series last week. Their squad looks well-balanced and suited to the dry conditions at Al Amerat, where spinners often dictate play. Captain Rohit Paudel’s side has momentum on their side, backed by an explosive top order and an experienced bowling lineup.
Kuwait, meanwhile, have shown flashes of promise but inconsistency remains their biggest challenge. After losing 2–0 to Oman in their recent series, they’ll look to rebound from that setback. However, their triumph in the Quadrangular Twenty20 Series in Hong Kong earlier this year proves they have the quality to challenge stronger opponents. A disciplined start with both bat and ball will be essential if they are to trouble Nepal’s confident lineup.
Team Form & Recent Results
Kuwait (Last 5 T20 matches): L W W L L
Nepal (Last 5 T20 matches): W W W L W
Kuwait’s recent results have been inconsistent, but their ability to pull off upsets remains. Nepal, on the other hand, have been in superb form, winning four of their last five matches and looking comfortable against higher-ranked opposition.
Kuwait Team Preview
Kuwait enter this contest hoping to replicate the form that saw them lift the Quadrangular Twenty20 title earlier in the year. Clinto Anto remains their key man, leading their run charts in both that tournament and the recent Oman series. His steady starts at the top of the order often set the tone.
Ravija Sandaruwan has been equally influential, scoring 154 runs in four matches in Hong Kong at a strike rate of 147. Skipper Mohammed Aslam and wicketkeeper Meet Bhavsar will need to provide middle-order stability, while Ali Zaheer and Nimish Lathief could play vital supporting roles.
Their bowling attack is well-suited to Al Amerat’s slow surface. Muhammad Aqif Farooq was outstanding in Oman, finishing as their top wicket-taker at this same venue. Spinners Yasin Patel and Anudeep Chenthamara bring variety and control, capable of applying pressure through the middle overs.
Predicted XI:
Clinto Anto, Meet Bhavsar, Usman Patel (wk), Ali Zaheer, Mohammed Aslam (c), Ravija Sandaruwan/Bilal Tahir, Nimish Lathief, Yasin Patel, Naveenraj Rajendran, Anudeep Chenthamara, Muhammad Aqif Farooq
Nepal Team Preview
Nepal have been one of Asia’s most in-form T20 sides in 2025. Their 2–1 series win against the West Indies showcased the team’s maturity and versatility under Rohit Paudel’s leadership. The top order — featuring Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh — has been consistent, while middle-order hitters like Dipendra Singh Airee and Sundeep Jora have provided the firepower.
Jora, in particular, impressed with 86 runs across three innings at a strike rate of 143 against the Caribbean side. Aasif Sheikh has been their most reliable scorer recently, tallying 166 runs from his last seven innings at 147. If either finds rhythm early, Nepal could quickly seize control.
With the ball, Nepal’s spin attack remains their biggest strength. Kushal Bhurtel and Mohammad Aadil Alam shared nine wickets in the West Indies series, while Lalit Rajbanshi offers another spin option. The potential inclusion of Sandeep Lamichhane — if cleared to play — would further strengthen their bowling depth. The pace attack of Karan KC and Dipendra Singh Airee ensures balance, both adept at bowling tight lines at the death.
Predicted XI:
Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Malla, Gulsan Jha, Dipendra Singh Airee, Sundeep Jora, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Mohammad Aadil Alam, Lalit Rajbanshi/Sandeep Lamichhane
Pitch & Weather Conditions
The surface at Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1) tends to favor batters early on, with even bounce and good carry under lights. However, as the game progresses, spin and slower deliveries become increasingly effective. Scores above 170 are often competitive.
Weather conditions are expected to be hot and humid throughout the evening, but with no rain forecast, a full 40 overs of play should be possible.
Toss Prediction: To Bowl
Teams batting second have enjoyed more success at this venue, as the dew factor can make chasing easier. Expect the toss-winning captain to opt for bowling first.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Match Winner: Nepal (1.60) | Kuwait (2.30)
- Top Kuwait Batter: Clinto Anto
- Top Nepal Bowler: Kushal Bhurtel
- Over/Under 170.5 Total Runs: Over (1.75)
Betting Insights:
- Nepal have won four of their last five T20 internationals.
- Kuwait have beaten Nepal once in their last three meetings.
- The last match between these teams in Hong Kong ended with Kuwait lifting the title, but Nepal’s recent form suggests a different outcome this time.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Venue: Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1), Oman
Date & Time: October 8, 2025 – 18:00 Local Time
Broadcast: ICC.tv, Fancode (India), Ten Sports (MENA)
Prediction: Kuwait vs Nepal, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier
This matchup could prove tighter than expected, with both sides bringing form and familiarity with conditions. Kuwait’s spin attack and batting depth can cause problems, but Nepal’s confidence and overall balance make them clear favorites. Expect a competitive contest early, but Nepal’s class should ultimately prevail.
