Nepal are almost certain of a place in Tuesday's semi-finals of the first T20 World Cup Qualifier after a big win over the Philippines today in Oman.

Philippines captain Jono Hill won the toss and, perhaps surprisingly given yesterday's match against Canada, chose to field first. Like the Canadians, Nepal had a centurion today with Kushal Bhurtel batting throughout their innings for his maiden T20I century.

He scored 104 from 61 balls and was ably assisted by Dipendra Singh Airee who made his highest T20I score with 83 from 47 balls. The pair put on 171 for the third wicket, the third highest partnership for that wicket in men's T20Is and the equal eighth highest for any wicket.

The final total for Nepal was 218-3, just outperforming Canada's innings yesterday against the same opponents.

The Philippines again managed to bat out their overs without getting close to their target. Jordan Alegra top scored for them with an unbeaten 27. Sandeep Lamichhane was the pick of the Nepali bowlers, taking three wickets for just nine runs to help restrict their opposition to 82-8 and win by 136 runs.

Nepal will face off with Canada on the final day of the group stage on Monday. A win will secure their place in the semi-finals, but their net run rate is such that they'll still qualify even with a defeat. The Philippines will be playing hosts Oman.