In a nail-biting start to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, England clinched a dramatic 4-run victory over a resilient Nepal side at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on February 7, 2026.
The match showcased the growing competitiveness of associate nations, with Nepal nearly pulling off an upset against the defending champions in front of a packed crowd of over 30,000 fans.
England, batting first after winning the toss, posted a competitive 184/7 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by stylish half-centuries from Harry Brook (56 off 42 balls) and young sensation Jacob Bethell (52 off 38 balls). The duo formed a crucial 85-run partnership for the fourth wicket, rescuing England from a shaky 45/3 early on. Contributions from captain Jos Buttler (28 off 20) and all-rounder Sam Curran (18* off 9) helped push the total beyond 180 on a pitch that offered some turn and bounce.
Nepal’s chase got off to a steady start, but it was the middle-order fireworks that brought them agonisingly close. Star all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee played a pivotal role, smashing 44 off 29 balls, including three sixes and two fours. His innings also marked a personal milestone as he became the first Nepalese player to reach 2,000 runs in T20 Internationals, underscoring Nepal’s rapid rise in the format. Lokesh Bam provided the late surge with an unbeaten 39 off 20 deliveries, featuring audacious scoops and pulls that kept the crowd on their feet.
Needing 10 runs off the final over bowled by Sam Curran, Nepal managed only 5, with Curran holding his nerve to concede just a single boundary.
England’s bowling attack was led by Adil Rashid, who claimed 2/28 with his deceptive leg-spin, while Curran finished with 1/32. Nepal’s bowlers, particularly Sompal Kami (3/35) and Sandeep Lamichhane (2/29), impressed by restricting England’s power-hitters in the death overs.
The win gives England two points in Group A, setting them up well for upcoming clashes against Australia and Afghanistan. Nepal, meanwhile, will look to bounce back against Scotland in their next fixture. With the tournament featuring an expanded 20-team format, matches like this promise more upsets and excitement ahead.
