Nepal opener Kushal Bhurtel has entered the record books during the 2026 Asian Games Men’s T20I Qualifier after producing a stunning innings against China. The right-handed batter smashed a blistering century as Nepal piled up 313/2, one of the highest totals recorded in men's T20 international cricket. During his knock, Bhurtel joined an exclusive group of batters to hit six consecutive sixes in an over, matching a feat famously achieved by Yuvraj Singh during the 2007 T20 World Cup.
Kushal Bhurtel's Record-Breaking Knock Against China
Batting first after an early setback, Nepal recovered strongly through Bhurtel's explosive innings.
The opener scored 129 runs from just 43 deliveries, reportedly striking five fours and 16 sixes. His aggressive approach helped Nepal dominate the contest and put China’s bowlers under relentless pressure.
Bhurtel's innings was supported by unbeaten knocks from Kushal Malla and Rohit Paudel, who accelerated the scoring further as Nepal crossed the 300-run mark.
How Did Kushal Bhurtel Emulate Yuvraj Singh's Record?
Bhurtel took apart a China over by hitting six successive sixes.
The achievement places him among a select group of men's T20I batters who have cleared the ropes six times in a row in a single over.
The list includes:
- Yuvraj Singh (India vs England, 2007)
- Kieron Pollard (West Indies vs Sri Lanka, 2021)
- Dipendra Singh Airee (Nepal vs Qatar, 2024)
- Kushal Bhurtel (Nepal vs China, 2026)
Reports further state that the over yielded 37 runs, making it one of the most expensive overs recorded in men's international cricket.
Who Is Kushal Bhurtel?
Bhurtel is regarded as one of Nepal's leading cricketers in the post-Paras Khadka era.
An opening batter known for his attacking style, he is also capable of contributing with leg-spin bowling and is recognised as a strong fielder.
His rise through the ranks began with Nepal's campaign at the 2016 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, where the team reached the quarter-finals.
Early International Success for Nepal Star
Bhurtel made an immediate impact after breaking into Nepal's senior side in 2021.
He reportedly scored four half-centuries in his first five T20 internationals, quickly establishing himself as one of the country's most exciting batting prospects.
In 2022, he registered his maiden T20I century, an unbeaten hundred against the Philippines, becoming only the third Nepal batter to achieve the milestone.
His ODI career also began strongly, including a match-winning innings against the United States in one of his early appearances.
Key Role in Nepal's Recent International Campaigns
Over the past few years, Bhurtel has become a crucial member of Nepal's national side.
He featured prominently during the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualifier and was also part of Nepal's squad at the 2024 T20 World Cup.
While primarily selected for his batting, he has increasingly contributed with the ball as well. One of his notable bowling performances came against South Africa national cricket team at the T20 World Cup, where he returned impressive figures and helped push the match deep into the contest.
Has Kushal Bhurtel Played Franchise Cricket?
Despite his growing reputation, Bhurtel has largely played domestic cricket within Nepal.
He has featured in the Nepal Premier League but is yet to establish himself in major overseas franchise tournaments. Performances such as his latest century against China could further strengthen his case for opportunities in leagues around the world.
Inputs from agencies
