Nepal's cricket team showcased a remarkable performance against two-time T20 World Cup champions England at the Wankhede Stadium on February 8, 2026, despite a narrow defeat. In their first-ever T20 International encounter with England, Nepal came agonizingly close to pulling off a sensational upset in their Group C clash.
England, after winning the toss and electing to bat, posted a total of 184 for 7. England's innings saw significant contributions from Jacob Bethell, who scored 55 off 34 balls, and captain Harry Brook, who added a half-century of his own with 53 off 32 deliveries. Will Jacks further boosted the total with a rapid, unbeaten 39 off just 18 balls, which included three sixes in the final over. Nepal's bowling attack, led by Dipendra Singh Airee and Nandan Yadav, managed to take two wickets each, keeping the scoring in check for a good portion of the innings.
Chasing a target of 185, Nepal displayed incredible resilience and determination. Despite losing early wickets, Nepal fought back fiercely. Dipendra Singh Airee top-scored with 44, while Lokesh Bam's blistering 39 off 20 balls brought Nepal within touching distance of the target. The passionate crowd at Wankhede Stadium roared with every boundary, fueling Nepal's chase.
The match went down to the wire, with Nepal needing just eight runs in the final over. However, England's Sam Curran held his nerve, delivering a composed final over under immense pressure to secure a narrow four-run victory for his team. Nepal ultimately finished their innings at 180 for 6. Luke Wood and Jofra Archer were key for England, taking three-wicket hauls.
Despite the loss, Nepal's performance was commendable. Their bowlers, including Sher Malla and Sandeep Lamichhane, put early pressure on England's strong batting lineup. Nepal's fight until the very end showcased their growing prowess in international cricket.
England's captain, Harry Brook, acknowledged Nepal's challenge and emphasized that his team was not taking the match lightly. He had stated prior to the game that England would treat every opponent with respect and aim to play their best cricket.
This marked Nepal's third appearance in the T20 World Cup, with prior participations in 2014 and 2024 where they were eliminated in the group stage. This was the first time Nepal and England have played against each other in a T20 International. While England is ranked third in T20 rankings, Nepal is currently ranked 16th.
The thrilling encounter at Wankhede Stadium highlighted Nepal's potential on the global stage and demonstrated their ability to compete against top-ranked teams.