Dubai, October 30, 2025 – A commanding all-round performance from debutant Zahid Ali and a masterful 98 from Aryansh Sharma powered the United Arab Emirates to a convincing five-wicket win over Nepal in the ICC Cricket World Cup League Two at the ICC Academy. The victory was sealed with a commanding 39 balls to spare, marking a strong response from the Emiratis after their recent T20 heartbreak against the same opponent.
Nepal’s Innings: A One-Man Show Amidst a Collapse
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Nepal’s innings was almost single-handedly held together by captain Rohit Paudel, who played a magnificent lone hand. He scored a brilliant 109 off 130 balls, his second ODI century, showcasing immense grit and responsibility.
However, Paudel found little support from the other end. Debutant pacer Zahid Ali was the chief destroyer for UAE, claiming an impressive 4-wicket haul on his debut. He was ably supported by Junaid Siddique (3/45), as the UAE bowlers regularly broke partnerships to prevent Nepal from building momentum. From a precarious position, a late cameo from Karan KC helped Nepal post a total of 233 all out, which seemed below par on a good batting surface.
UAE’s Chase: A Professional Demolition
In response, UAE came out with clear intent. Alishan Sharafu provided a fiery start, smashing 45 off just 26 balls to immediately put Nepal on the back foot. After his dismissal, Aryansh Sharma took over the anchor role, playing a chanceless and composed innings.
Aryansh expertly guided the chase, forming crucial partnerships with Rahul Chopra and Muhammad Waseem. He seemed destined for a well-deserved century but fell agonizingly short on 98, caught and bowled by Sandeep Lamichhane. A brief, late stutter from UAE saw three quick wickets fall, but it was too little, too late for Nepal. Fittingly, it was debutant hero Zahid Ali (11*) who hit the winning runs, capping off a perfect day for the young all-rounder.
Key Takeaways
- Zahid Ali’s Dream Debut: The pacer’s 4-wicket haul broke the backbone of Nepal’s batting and he fittingly scored the winning runs.
- Aryansh Sharma’s Masterclass: His 98 was a lesson in controlled, run-chase batting, ensuring UAE never lost sight of the target.
- Captain Paudel’s Lone Battle: Rohit Paudel’s century was a class apart, but the lack of support from other batters ultimately cost Nepal the game.
- UAE’s Dominant Response: This comprehensive victory avenges their thrilling last-ball defeat to Nepal in the T20 World Cup Qualifier just weeks ago.
The win provides UAE with crucial points in the League Two standings as they continue their campaign to qualify for the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
Brief Scores:
Nepal: 233 all out in 50 overs (Rohit Paudel 109; Zahid Ali 4/53, Junaid Siddique 3/45)
United Arab Emirates: 237/5 in 43.3 overs (Aryansh Sharma 98, Alishan Sharafu 45; Dipendra Singh Airee 1/39)
Result: UAE won by 5 wickets (with 39 balls remaining).
Player of the Match: Zahid Ali
