Nepal Makes History by Defeating West Indies in T20 Series
New Delhi – The Nepal cricket team achieved a remarkable milestone by defeating the West Indies in the first two T20 matches of their ongoing three-game series. As an associate nation, Nepal secured an unexpected victory, winning the second T20I by 90 runs.
Historically, while there have been instances where associate nations have triumphed over full-member teams in T20I cricket, such occurrences are rare, particularly involving cricketing powerhouses like the West Indies. The recent showdown between Nepal and the Windies stands out as a noteworthy example.
This article examines five significant upsets by associate nations against full-member teams in T20 cricket history.
5. England vs Netherlands, T20 World Cup 2014
The Netherlands stunned the cricketing world by defeating England in the 29th match of the T20 World Cup 2014, held on March 31, 2014, in Chattogram. Batting first, the Dutch set a target of 133 runs. Thanks to outstanding performances from Logan van Beek and Mudassar Bukhari, who each took three wickets, England was restricted to just 88 runs, leading to a 45-run victory for the Netherlands.
4. Namibia vs Sri Lanka, T20 World Cup 2022
The T20 World Cup 2022 commenced on a sour note for Sri Lanka, as they faced Namibia in the tournament’s opening match on October 16, 2022. Namibia set a target of 163 runs, and despite efforts, Sri Lanka managed only 108 runs, with Namibia winning by 55 runs after a stellar bowling performance.
3. Nepal vs West Indies, Nepal Tour of UAE, September 2025
In a standout series against the West Indies in September 2025, Nepal demonstrated exceptional skill. During the second T20I, Nepal batted first and scored 173 runs. In a commanding performance, they dismissed the West Indies for just 83 runs, resulting in a 90-run victory.
4. USA vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup 2024
One of the most surprising outcomes in Pakistan cricket occurred during the T20 World Cup 2024, where the USA faced off against Pakistan on June 6, 2024. Pakistan batted first and posted 159 runs. The USA matched this total, leading to a super over, which the USA won, marking a significant upset.
5. Netherlands vs South Africa, T20 World Cup 2022
Another notable upset took place during the T20 World Cup 2022 when the Netherlands defeated South Africa. The match occurred on November 6, 2022. After setting a target of 158 runs, the Netherlands limited South Africa to 145 runs, sealing a 13-run victory.
