Cricket fever is officially building up ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, as Nepal and Oman have punched their tickets to next year’s global showpiece following their impressive performances in the Asia/East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Qualifier, held in Muscat.
The two Asian teams sealed their qualification after a dramatic series of Super Six results, with the United Arab Emirates’ 77-run victory over Samoa confirming Oman and Nepal’s top-three finish — and with it, automatic qualification for the T20 World Cup 2026, set to take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 6 to March 7, 2026.
Nepal Continue Their Rising Journey
For Nepal, this qualification marks yet another milestone in their inspiring cricket journey. Having featured in the 2014 and 2024 editions of the T20 World Cup, this will be their third appearance at the global stage.
Under the leadership of Rohit Paudel, Nepal have displayed remarkable consistency throughout the qualifiers — winning close encounters against UAE and Qatar, both decided in thrilling final overs.
Star all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee, ever the match-winner, was instrumental once again, while Sandeep Lamichhane’s spin wizardry (5/18 against Qatar) turned what seemed like a lost cause into a memorable win.
Their resilience and self-belief have once again proven that Nepal’s cricket is on a steady upward climb, not just regionally but on the global stage.
Oman Deliver on Expectations
Hosts Oman, who came into the qualifiers as one of the tournament favorites, lived up to every bit of that billing. With their disciplined bowling and power-hitting lower order, the Omanis continued their reputation as one of the most consistent Associate teams in recent years.
After making appearances in 2016 and 2024, Oman have now booked a spot in their third ICC T20 World Cup. Veteran all-rounder Zeeshan Maqsood and big-hitter Nadeem Khan were crucial in getting Oman across the line in key games — especially in their nervy Super Six win against the UAE, where Khan’s late flourish sealed victory with two balls to spare.
Playing in front of their passionate home crowd, Oman once again demonstrated their knack for handling pressure, reinforcing why they are among the most respected emerging cricket nations.
UAE, Japan & Qatar Battle for Third Spot
While UAE are currently in pole position for the third qualification spot, Japan and Qatar remain in contention heading into the final round of Super Six fixtures. Japan, who have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament, will face the UAE in a decisive encounter, while Qatar take on Samoa in their final outing.
Though mathematically possible, Qatar’s qualification hopes hinge on not just victory, but also on favorable net run rate scenarios.
What’s Next – The Road to the T20 World Cup 2026
With Nepal and Oman now officially confirmed as the 18th and 19th teams to qualify, only one more slot remains open from the Asia/EAP Qualifier.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will feature 20 teams and promises to be one of the most competitive editions yet. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the tournament is expected to deliver electric atmospheres, passionate crowds, and some unforgettable cricket moments.
For Nepal and Oman, qualification means not only global exposure but also a chance to measure themselves against the world’s best once again.
As the cricketing world turns its eyes toward 2026, these two teams have already scripted history — and their journey is just getting started.
