Six teams have kept ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028 dreams alive after the Sub-Regional Qualifiers in Malaysia.
Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar finished in the top three of the seven-team field to progress from Sub-Regional Qualifier A, while Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, China and Malaysia prevailed from Sub-Regional Qualifier B. The qualifying teams from each group will advance to the next stage of the Asia qualification pathway in 2027.
Kuwait Lead the Way in Qualifier A
Kuwait set the early pace in Qualifier A. They beat Qatar on matchday one, with six players scoring over 20 in an authoritative 199/7, and won by 58 runs.
Mohammed Aslam’s side did slip up against Bahrain. However, emphatic wins over Myanmar (by nine wickets) and Bhutan (by eight wickets) meant Kuwait could watch the final day from the sidelines on their bye, having already secured progress.
“Winning the T20 World Cup Qualifier is an incredibly proud moment for all of us,” Aslam said afterwards.
“Our success came from clear planning, disciplined preparation, belief in our players and a strong team culture. We worked hard to build a team that plays fearless, attacking cricket while staying united under pressure.
“The players deserve immense credit for their commitment and the way they delivered when it mattered most.”
Bahrain and Qatar Serve Up a Thriller
Kuwait followed the final day closely at the Selangor Turf Club, as a Qatar win over Bahrain would secure top spot in the group. Both sides had already progressed, but Bahrain had the chance to claim first place in the single round-robin competition, and the match delivered a thriller.
Qatar’s No.11, Mujeeb Ur Rehman, walked out to face the final ball of the last over, needing a single to win off the bowling of Shujaat Rasool. He sneaked home to the non-striker’s end when his leg-side swipe was fumbled in the infield.
Kuwait (10 points), Bahrain (10) and Qatar (9) finished comfortably ahead of the chasing pack. Thailand took fourth place after beating Bhutan.
Bhutan celebrated their first centurion in ICC pathway events, as Tenjin Rabgey scored an unbeaten 108 off 58 balls against Mongolia, who were taking part in pathway events for the second time. Myanmar also beat Mongolia on the final day of action.
Saudi Arabia Claim Top Spot in Qualifier B
In Sub-Regional Qualifier B, Saudi Arabia claimed the top spot. Malaysia finished in the top three, and Hong Kong, China joined them with a win on the final day.
The Saudis held their nerve in final-over thrillers against Malaysia and Hong Kong. They closed out an undefeated campaign with a win over the Maldives.
Malaysia suffered a heartbreaking seven-run defeat to Hong Kong on DLS, and they also lost to Saudi Arabia in their home campaign’s opener. They responded with a strong win over the Maldives, followed by a crucial 37-run victory over Singapore. All-rounder Virandeep Singh starred in that game. The left-arm orthodox spinner took 5/14 in four overs and added 65 not out from 52 balls. He became just the fifth player in men’s T20Is to score a half-century, take a five-wicket haul and claim a catch in the same match.
“It is an incredible feeling and a historic moment for Saudi cricket,” Saudi Arabia captain Waji Ul Hassan said.
“Winning our first ICC tournament is a dream come true and a reward for our hard work, dedication, and determination.
“We are extremely proud to represent Saudi Arabia and bring this achievement home.
“Most importantly, I am incredibly proud of my teammates, who demonstrated outstanding commitment, unity, and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.”
China Shine With the Ball
China returned to ICC T20 World Cup pathway cricket at the Qualifier. They finished without a win but showed quality with the ball. Tian Sen Qun, the team’s standout player, took seven wickets at an average of 12 and an economy under nine. Ma Qiancheng also took a wicket in as many matches.