Nepal cricket is rapidly rising on the global stage, with the Rhinos earning respect for their fearless performances and growing impact in international tournaments.
Nepal’s national cricket team is competing at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March 2026.
This marks Nepal’s third appearance in the main event, having first qualified in 2014 and most recently played in 2024.
Nepal, known as the Rhinos, has been gaining attention for their spirited performances and growing competitiveness on the global stage.
Nepal’s T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule
Nepal has been placed in Group C alongside England, the West Indies, Bangladesh, and Italy, with all their group matches scheduled at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India.
Nepal’s Fixtures:
- 8 February 2026: Nepal vs England—Group C opener
- 11 February 2026: Nepal vs Italy
- 15 February 2026: Nepal vs West Indies
- 17 February 2026: Nepal vs Bangladesh
The Rhinos will aim to finish in the top two of their group to progress to the Super 8 stage.
Thrilling Match Against England
In their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026 on 8 February 2026, Nepal pushed England to the brink in a thrilling Group C contest at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
England posted 184/7 batting first, powered by half-centuries from Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell.
Nepal’s chase was competitive throughout, with captain Rohit Paudel (39) and Dipendra Singh Airee (44) leading the charge and Lokesh Bam hitting a quick 39 off 20 balls* late in the innings.
In a dramatic finish, England held their nerve and won by just four runs (184/7 to 180/6) in a last-over thriller—denying Nepal one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.
England Beat Nepal: What Happened?
England’s bowlers defended the target in a tense final over, with Sam Curran’s death bowling proving crucial in restricting Nepal’s chase.
Despite Nepal needing only a few runs off the last overs and a strong partnership late in the innings, England survived the scare to secure the win.
Nepal’s performance earned widespread praise, with commentators noting that the team “pushed England right to the edge” and delivered one of their most competitive World Cup displays ever.
Nepal’s Growing Cricket Profile
Although Nepal lost a close match, their performance against a Test nation like England signals how far Nepali cricket has progressed.
Stars like Rohit Paudel, Dipendra Singh Airee, Lokesh Bam, and others have shown they can compete at high levels and challenge established teams.
Former fast bowler Dale Steyn publicly offered to mentor Nepal’s players after their spirited display, praising their growth and fight.
What’s Next for Nepal
Following their match against England, Nepal will look to build momentum as they face Italy. The West Indies and Bangladesh in their remaining Group C games—each crucial to their hopes of reaching the Super 8 stage. (सार्वजनिक सेवा प्रसारण रेडियो नेपाल)
With growing fan support and rising confidence, Nepal cricket could be set for one of its most memorable World Cup campaigns in 2026.