Nepal’s national cricket team, popularly known as the Rhinos, has been placed in Group C of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. According to the updated schedule released by the International Cricket Council, Nepal will play all its group-stage matches at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India.
The announcement has generated strong interest among Nepali cricket fans, as the team prepares for another major appearance on the global stage.
Group C Composition After Fixture Revision
The ICC recently revised the tournament fixtures, leading to a reshuffle in Group C. Following the update, Nepal will compete against England, the West Indies, Scotland, and Italy during the group stage of the tournament.
England and the West Indies are among the most experienced teams in T20 cricket, while Scotland has built a reputation as a competitive associate nation. Italy will be making its debut at the Men’s T20 World Cup, marking a historic moment for Italian cricket.
All Matches Scheduled at Wankhede Stadium
All of Nepal’s Group C matches will take place at Wankhede Stadium, one of the most famous cricket venues in the world. The stadium is known for its lively atmosphere and has hosted several memorable international matches over the years.
Playing all group-stage games at a single venue could help Nepal adapt better to pitch and weather conditions, especially against stronger opponents.
Match Schedule and Key Dates
Nepal’s group-stage campaign will begin on February 8 with a challenging opening match against England. The team will then face Italy on February 12, followed by a clash against the West Indies on February 15. Nepal’s final group-stage match will be played against Scotland on February 17.
The matches are scheduled at different times of the day, including both morning and evening games, which may test the team’s adaptability.
Team Leadership and Squad Focus
Nepal will be led by captain Rohit Paudel, who has played an important role in the team’s recent progress at the international level. The squad features a mix of experienced players and young talent, reflecting Nepal’s long-term development approach.
Spin bowling is expected to be a key strength for Nepal, particularly on Indian pitches. The team management believes disciplined bowling and smart batting will be crucial against top-ranked opponents.
Qualification Scenario and Challenges Ahead
To qualify for the Super 8 stage, Nepal must finish among the top two teams in Group C. While matches against England and West Indies will pose significant challenges, games against Italy and Scotland are likely to play a decisive role in Nepal’s qualification hopes.
Consistent performances and effective execution of game plans will be essential for the Rhinos to advance.
Preparations Before the Tournament
Nepal is currently finalizing its preparations for the T20 World Cup. Warm-up matches against the United Arab Emirates and Canada are scheduled in early February, providing valuable match practice ahead of the tournament. These matches are expected to help the team adjust to conditions and finalize their playing combinations.
Nepal’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 highlights the country’s steady rise in international cricket. With growing fan support and increased exposure at global events, expectations are high for a competitive showing.
As the tournament approaches, Nepali fans will be hoping the Rhinos can deliver strong performances and create memorable moments on one of cricket’s biggest stages.
