At the DXC Arena in Darwin, Pakistan batted first and posted 144 runs for 9 wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Captain Mohammad Irfan Khan remained unbeaten on 42 runs, smashing 3 fours and a six. Abdul Samad scored 26 while Mohammad Wasim Jr contributed 23 runs.

For Nepal, Sompal Kami was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets for 30 runs. Dipendra Singh Airee and Nandan Yadav also impressed with two wickets each.

Chasing 145, Nepal kept the contest alive till the very end. Skipper Rohit Kumar struck 52 while Aasif Sheikh added 27 runs. Dipendra Singh played a fighting knock of 41, but Nepal fell short by just one run, finishing at 143 for 7 in 20 overs.

The drama peaked in the final over. Nepal needed 8 runs to win and 3 off the last ball. But Faisal Akram kept his nerve, first having Kushal Malla stumped for 2 and then Dipendra Singh was run out on the final delivery, leaving Pakistan victorious by the slimmest of margins.

For Pakistan, Mohammad Wasim Jr and Faisal Akram took 2 wickets each. With this thrilling finish, the Shaheens sealed their place in the semi-final, scheduled for Sunday, 24 August.

Read more: India breaks silence over Asia Cup 2025 clash With Pakistan

This victory shows Pakistan Shaheens’ ability to handle extreme pressure situations. Nepal had the game within their grasp, needing just 8 runs in the final over, but Faisal Akram’s composure turned the match around. Such close finishes not only test skill but also the nerves of young cricketers, giving them exposure to high-pressure cricket. Pakistan’s qualification for the semi-final boosts their confidence, while Nepal will reflect on missed opportunities in what could have been their historic win.