With Nepal and the United Arab Emirates set to contest the ACC Men’s Premier Cup final on September 12, fantasy cricket players have a straightforward, high-stakes match to build their squads around.
Quick Answer / Key Update
Nepal’s Ishan Pandey, the tournament’s leading run-scorer with 152 runs, and bowlers Sandeep Lamichhane and Dipendra Singh Airee, who combined for six wickets in the semi-final win over Oman, are the standout fantasy picks from Nepal heading into the final against the UAE.
What Happened?
Nepal reached the final by defending a modest total of 147 against Oman, bowling their opponents out for just 60 thanks to three-wicket hauls apiece from Lamichhane and Airee. The UAE, meanwhile, chased down a small Hong Kong total inside 12 overs to book their place in the summit clash.
Key Fantasy Picks for the Final
Ishan Pandey (Nepal, Batter): The tournament’s leading run-scorer with 152 runs, making him Nepal’s most reliable batting option. Sandeep Lamichhane (Nepal, Bowler): Took three wickets in the semi-final and remains Nepal’s primary wicket-taking threat with his leg-spin. Dipendra Singh Airee (Nepal, All-rounder): Also claimed three wickets against Oman and offers value with both bat and ball. Rahul Chopra (UAE, Batter): Struck the winning runs in the semi-final against Hong Kong and has been among the UAE’s in-form batters.
Why Is This Trending?
With the final carrying direct 2027 Asia Cup qualification stakes, fantasy players are paying close attention to which Nepal and UAE players are best placed to deliver strong performances in a match with genuine consequences beyond the trophy itself.
Players to Watch
Nepal’s bowling attack, led by Lamichhane and Airee, has been the key factor in their run to the final, while the UAE will rely on a balanced batting unit that has chased down totals efficiently throughout the tournament.
What Happens Next?
The final takes place on September 12, 2026, at the Bayuemas Cricket Oval in Kuala Lumpur, giving fantasy players one last chance to capitalise on the form shown by both sides throughout the tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best fantasy pick from Nepal for the final?
Ishan Pandey, the tournament’s leading run-scorer with 152 runs, is Nepal’s standout fantasy option.
Which Nepal bowlers performed well in the semi-final?
Sandeep Lamichhane and Dipendra Singh Airee each took three wickets to help bowl out Oman for 60.
Final Takeaway
With Nepal’s bowling strength and Ishan Pandey’s consistent batting leading the way, fantasy players have clear standout options heading into the ACC Premier Cup final against the UAE in Kuala Lumpur.
Also read: Want more cricket coverage? Read the Asian Games 2026 cricket team list with every men’s and women’s squad.
