The Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier on October 17 at Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1) is set to be one of the most thrilling matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier 2025.
Nepal, riding high on confidence, are on the verge of securing their spot for the T20 World Cup 2026, while Samoa, though out of contention, are determined to leave a mark with a potential Samoa Cricket Upset. Cricket fans can follow the live scores and updates on cricketer.io.
For more coverage on regional qualifiers and other tournaments, visit more cricket series and latest cricket news.
Super Six Standings and Team Momentum
Heading into the Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier, three teams have dominated the Super Six stage: Nepal, Oman, and the UAE. Each carried over two points from the group stage, giving them a significant advantage.
- Nepal: Undefeated in the Super Six so far, with narrow wins against UAE (1 run) and Qatar (5 runs).
- Oman: Hosts and strong contenders, topping the table alongside Nepal.
- UAE: Competitive side, challenging the top spots.
Samoa, however, entered the Super Six with zero carry-over points and are currently at the bottom, aiming to create an upset in the Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier. Their goal is not just pride but a chance to disrupt the table dynamics for teams like UAE and Japan.
Check out Japan cricket team road to T20 World Cup 2026 for related qualifier insights.
Nepal’s Form and Key Performers
Nepal has been unstoppable:
- Group Stage: Beat Kuwait by 58 runs and narrowly defeated Japan.
- Super Six:
- vs UAE: Won by 1 run, showing nerves of steel.
- vs Qatar: Won by 5 runs, backed by clinical bowling.
Top Performers:
- Rohit Paudel – Anchored the middle order with 58 runs vs Qatar.
- Sandeep Lamichhane – Took 5 crucial wickets in the same match, showcasing his world-class spin.
Nepal’s journey demonstrates a team excelling under pressure, ready to capitalize in the Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier. For more updates, visit Nepal cricket team news.
Samoa’s Challenge and Key Players
Samoa’s run has been about fighting spirit:
- Group Stage: Notable six-wicket win over Papua New Guinea.
- Super Six: Yet to win, but bringing in experience with Ross Taylor and young talents like Sean Solia.
Key performers in prior matches:
- Sean Solia – 62 off 45 vs PNG, showcasing his match-winning potential.
- Solomon Nash – 4/24 vs PNG, providing early breakthroughs.
Even though Samoa are underdogs in the Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier, they have the experience to deliver a major upset.
Super Six Points Table
| Pos | Team | Wins (Carry Over) | Losses | NRR | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oman | 1+2 | 0 | High | 6 |
| 2 | Nepal | 1+2 | 0 | +0.783 | 6 |
| 3 | UAE | 1+1 | 1 | Moderate | 4 |
| 4 | Qatar | 0 | 2 | Low | 0 |
| 5 | Japan | 0 | 1 | Low | 0 |
| 6 | Samoa | 0 | 1 | -1.047 | 0 |
Updated as of October 15, after Nepal vs Qatar.
Probable Playing XI
Nepal
Aasif Sheikh (WK), Kushal Bhurtel, Rohit Paudel (C), Sundeep Jora, Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi
Samoa
Caleb Jasmat (C), Daniel Burgess, Ross Taylor, Benjamin Mailata, Sean Solia, Saumani Tiai, Fereti Suluoto (WK), Darius Visser, Solomon Nash, Ili Tugaga, Douglas Finau
Match Impact
The Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier has huge implications:
- Nepal: Victory ensures a near-certain T20 World Cup 2026 qualification and boosts NRR for a top-two finish.
- Samoa: Opportunity to play spoiler and create a historic upset, influencing other teams like UAE or Japan.
“Nepal’s spinners Lamichhane and Airee are championship material, winning tense matches under pressure. Their bowling makes them the favorites.” – Asia-EAP cricket analyst
“Samoa may be underdogs, but with Ross Taylor in the line-up, they can deliver one big match-winning innings. They’re capable of surprising Nepal.” – Pacific cricket expert
Secondary Storylines
- Japan cricket team road to T20 World Cup 2026: Japan continues to show steady growth in East Asia Pacific cricket.
- UAE vs Japan Super Six match prediction and pitch report: Key context for teams competing for the last two T20 World Cup slots.
- Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming vs Waseem Muhammad T20 stats: Highlights the rising talent pool and competitive edge across the region.
Conclusion
The Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier is a tale of confidence vs pride. Nepal have demonstrated consistency, composure, and tactical brilliance. Samoa, though out of contention, possess the experience and hunger to make an impact.
With pressure mounting, this match is more than a game — it’s about legacy, regional growth, and setting the stage for T20 World Cup 2026.
Stay updated with latest cricket news and explore more cricket series to follow the journey of all East Asia Pacific qualifiers.
FAQs
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When is the Nepal vs Samoa T20 World Cup Qualifier match?
October 17 at Al Amerat Cricket Ground, Oman.
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What’s at stake for Nepal?
A win nearly guarantees qualification for T20 World Cup 2026.
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Can Samoa affect qualification?
Yes, by potentially upsetting Nepal and impacting NRR and table standings.
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Who are key players to watch?
Rohit Paudel, Sandeep Lamichhane (Nepal); Sean Solia, Ross Taylor (Samoa).
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Where can I follow live updates?
