KATHMANDU, In a thrilling set of semi-final matches, Nepal and Oman clinched their qualifications for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, overcoming the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, respectively. The victories booked their tickets to the tournament slated to be hosted by the West Indies and the United States of America next year.

According to the International Cricket Council, the Asia Qualifier semi-finals, held in Nepal, saw the home team defeat the UAE by eight wickets at the Mulpani Cricket Ground. Oman recorded a 10-wicket triumph over Bahrain at the TU Cricket Ground. The wins for both teams mean they will advance to the ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which for the first time, will feature 20 teams.

The elation for the two qualifiers will carry them into a face-off for the tournament final on Sunday. For Nepal, this marks a return to the world stage after a nine-year hiatus, their last participation being in the 2014 event in Bangladesh. Oman will be looking to build on their experience from their last appearance in the 2021 World Cup, which they co-hosted in lieu of India.

Nepal’s semi-final match against the UAE was highlighted by a strong performance in front of their home supporters. Nepal’s bowling attack, led by Kushal Malla’s three-wicket haul, limited the UAE to 134/9. The home side’s chase was steered by Player of the Match, Aasif Sheikh, and captain Rohit Paudel, whose partnership saw Nepal comfortably reach their target.

In Kirtipur, Oman’s bowlers, particularly Aqib Ilyas with a remarkable four-wicket spell, dismantled the Bahrain batting lineup. Oman’s openers then made short work of the chase, with both Kashyap Prajapati and Pratik Athavale notching half-centuries to secure a resounding victory.

The conclusion of the Asia Qualifier semi-finals has now confirmed eighteen teams for the upcoming World Cup. The remaining two spots will be determined in the Africa qualifier, which is scheduled to be contested in Namibia from November 20 to 30, 2023.