KATHMANDU: Nepal secured a historic 19-run victory over West Indies on Saturday, marking their first-ever triumph against a full Test-playing nation and taking a 1–0 lead in the three-match T20 international series.

After being sent in to bat, Nepal recovered from 12 for two to post 148 for eight. Captain Rohit Paudel anchored the innings with 38 off 35 balls, including three fours and a six, before falling to Navin Vidaisey. Kushal Malla struck a quick 30 from 21 deliveries, while Gulshan Jha added 22 to build crucial momentum.

In reply, West Indies were restricted to 129 for eight in their 20 overs. Vidaisey top-scored with 22, while Jason Holder made contributions with both bat and ball. Kushal Bhurtel led Nepal’s attack with two wickets, while Nandan Yadav, Lalit Rajbanshi, Paudel and Karan KC claimed one apiece.

The Caribbean side’s chase unraveled as opener Kyle Mayers was run out for 5, before Bhurtel dismissed Holder and Vidaisey in quick succession. Regular breakthroughs ensured West Indies never gained control.

Holder finished with four wickets and Vidaisey with three for 29, but their efforts could not prevent Nepal from sealing one of the most significant wins in the nation’s cricket history.

The second T20I will be played on Monday, with the third and final match scheduled for Tuesday in Sharjah.