Nepal Crush Malaysia by 167 Runs in Asian Games Men’s Qualifier
Kathmandu: Nepal produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat Malaysia by a massive 167-run margin in the Asian Games Men’s Qualifier match played on June 4, 2026, in Singapore. The Nepali team displayed explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and excellent fielding to secure one of their most convincing victories in recent international cricket.
After winning the toss and batting first, Nepal posted a huge total of 275 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, Malaysia struggled against Nepal’s bowling attack and were bowled out for just 108 runs, handing Nepal a comprehensive victory.
Kushal Bhurtel Leads Nepal’s Batting Masterclass
The star of the match was Kushal Bhurtel, who delivered a sensational innings of 126 runs from only 54 balls. His explosive knock included 14 boundaries and 8 sixes, helping Nepal reach one of their highest T20 totals.
Bhurtel attacked the Malaysian bowlers from the very beginning and maintained a remarkable strike rate of 233.33. He played shots all around the ground and never allowed the opposition bowlers to settle into a rhythm.
His innings was a perfect combination of power, timing, and intelligent shot selection. Every time Malaysia attempted to slow down the scoring rate, Bhurtel responded with another boundary or six.
Kushal Bhurtel’s Match-Winning Innings
Kushal Bhurtel scored 126 runs from 54 deliveries. He struck 14 fours and 8 sixes while maintaining a strike rate above 233. His century came under immense pressure to provide Nepal with a strong platform, and he successfully turned the innings into a batting spectacle.
The innings earned him the Player of the Match award and once again highlighted his importance to Nepal’s cricket team.
Aasif Sheikh Provides Excellent Support
While Bhurtel grabbed most of the attention, wicketkeeper-batsman Aasif Sheikh also played a brilliant innings. He scored 68 runs from just 24 balls and maintained an extraordinary strike rate of 283.33.
Aasif’s aggressive approach complemented Bhurtel perfectly. Together, the pair put tremendous pressure on Malaysia and ensured Nepal continued scoring at a rapid pace throughout the innings.
The partnership between Bhurtel and Aasif laid the foundation for Nepal’s massive total and effectively took the game away from Malaysia.
Important Contributions from the Middle Order
Nepal also received useful contributions from several middle-order players.
Captain Dipendra Singh Airee scored 31 runs from only 11 deliveries. His innings featured powerful hitting and helped Nepal maintain momentum during the final overs.
Sundeep Jora added 15 runs from 14 balls, while Lokesh Bam contributed 10 runs. Kushal Malla remained unbeaten on 9 runs, and Karan KC chipped in with 7 runs.
The ability of Nepal’s middle order to continue scoring quickly ensured the team finished strongly and crossed the 275-run mark.
Nepal Batting Scorecard
Kushal Bhurtel – 126 runs (54 balls)
Aasif Sheikh – 68 runs (24 balls)
Dipendra Singh Airee – 31 runs (11 balls)
Sundeep Jora – 15 runs (14 balls)
Lokesh Bam – 10 runs (6 balls)
Kushal Malla – 9 not out (7 balls)
Karan KC – 7 runs (3 balls)
Sompal Kami – 1 not out (1 ball)
Extras – 8
Total – 275/7 in 20 overs
Malaysia Face Massive Target
Chasing an enormous target of 276 runs, Malaysia needed a strong start. However, Nepal’s bowlers executed their plans brilliantly and never allowed the Malaysian batters to gain momentum.
The required run rate remained above 13 runs per over from the very beginning, creating immense pressure on the Malaysian batting lineup.
Wickets fell regularly, and Malaysia found it difficult to build partnerships. The Nepali bowlers mixed pace, accuracy, and intelligent field placements to keep the opposition under control.
Nepal Bowlers Complete a Clinical Performance
Nepal’s bowling attack backed up the outstanding batting display with an equally impressive performance.
The bowlers consistently attacked the stumps and forced Malaysian batters into mistakes. They maintained pressure throughout the innings and ensured that Malaysia never threatened Nepal’s total.
The fielders also supported the bowlers brilliantly with sharp catches and energetic work inside the fielding circle.
Malaysia eventually managed only 108 runs before being restricted well short of the target.
One of Nepal’s Most Dominant T20 Victories
The 167-run victory margin demonstrates the complete dominance Nepal enjoyed throughout the match. Winning by such a large margin in a T20 international-level competition reflects the growing strength and confidence of the Nepali cricket team.
From the explosive opening partnership to the disciplined bowling effort, Nepal outperformed Malaysia in every department of the game.
The result also boosts Nepal’s confidence as the team continues its campaign in the Asian Games Men’s Qualifier tournament.
Captain Dipendra Singh Airee Praises Team Effort
Although individual performances stood out, the victory was built on a collective team effort. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee led from the front with an aggressive cameo and ensured the team remained focused throughout the contest.
The batting unit delivered one of its best performances, while the bowlers successfully defended a huge total without allowing Malaysia any opportunity to stage a comeback.
The balance between experienced players and emerging talents continues to be one of Nepal’s biggest strengths in international cricket.
What This Victory Means for Nepal
This convincing win strengthens Nepal’s position in the Asian Games Men’s Qualifier and sends a strong message to other competing teams. The batting lineup appears to be in excellent form, and the bowling attack continues to improve with every match.
Kushal Bhurtel’s century will be remembered as one of the standout performances of the tournament, while the team’s overall display highlights Nepal’s ambition to achieve greater success on the international stage.
If Nepal can maintain this level of performance in upcoming matches, the team will be considered one of the strongest contenders in the competition.
Match Summary
Match: Nepal vs Malaysia
Tournament: Asian Games Men’s Qualifier
Venue: Singapore
Nepal: 275/7 in 20 overs
Malaysia: 108/9 in 20 overs
Nepal won by 167 runs
Player of the Match: Kushal Bhurtel (126 runs from 54 balls)
Nepal’s commanding victory was powered by a magnificent century from Kushal Bhurtel and an explosive innings from Aasif Sheikh. Combined with disciplined bowling and excellent fielding, Nepal secured a memorable 167-run win and continued their impressive run in the Asian Games Men’s Qualifier.
