12/2/2026, 11:27:49 am

Nepal vs Italy Match Preview 2026: Playing XI, Pitch Report, Time, Venue & Prediction

Nepal will face Italy in the 17th Match, Group C of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with both teams aiming to keep their qualification hopes alive in a crucial encounter.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 – Match Details

  • Match: Nepal vs Italy – Group C
  • Date: 12 February 2026
  • Day: Thursday
  • Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
  • Time: 3:00 PM (Local) / 9:30 AM GMT

Live Telecast & Streaming

  • Live Telecast: Star Sports Network
  • Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar / JioHotstar

Probable Playing XI

Nepal Probable XI:

Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam, Gulsan Jha, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, Sher Malla

Italy Probable XI:

Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, Wayne Madson (c), JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti, Jaspreet Singh / Marcus Campopiano, Grant Stewart, Gian Meade (wk), Crishan Kalugamage, Thomas Draca, Ali Hasan


Pitch Report

The Wankhede pitch is expected to play slightly slower than usual, which could make stroke-making challenging at times. Teams familiar with the conditions may hold a small advantage, and a balanced approach with both spin and pace could be effective.


Weather Report

Warm afternoon conditions are expected in Mumbai, and no significant rain interruptions are likely, allowing for a full match.


Key Players

Nepal

  • Rohit Paudel: Captain and dependable middle-order batter.
  • Dipendra Singh Airee: Impact all-rounder capable of turning the game in both departments.
  • Sandeep Lamichhane: Experienced leg-spinner and key wicket-taker.

Italy

  • JJ Smuts: Experienced all-rounder who can influence the game with both bat and ball.
  • Grant Stewart: Useful seam-bowling all-rounder.
  • Harry Manenti: Spin option who can control the middle overs.

Match Prediction

Nepal enters the contest with a slight advantage due to better familiarity with the conditions and a more experienced spin attack. However, Italy’s all-round depth could make this a closely contested match if their top order performs well.