Nepal vs Italy: ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 Match Preview
Match Details:
Match: Nepal vs Italy (NEP vs ITA), 17th Match, ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026
Date and Time: February 12, 09:30 am GMT / 03:30 pm BD / 03:00 pm local time
Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Nepal vs Italy Preview:
Nepal (NEP) is gearing up to take on Italy (ITA) in their 17th match during the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. The exciting showdown is set to unfold at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, February 12.
NEP vs ITA Possible Playing XI:
Nepal: Aasif Sheikh (wk), Kushal Bhurtel, Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Malla, Gulshan Jha, Aarif Sheikh, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Sompal Kami.
Italy: Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Marcus Campopiano, JJ Smuts, Wayne Madsen (C), Gian-Piero Meade (WK), Grant Stewart, Harry Manenti, Ben Manenti, Thomas Draca, Jaspreet Singh.
NEP vs ITA Recent 5 Match Performance:
Nepal: W W W W L
Italy: L L L W L
NEP vs ITA Head-To-Head Records:
StatsMatchNEP WonITA WonNRTieOverall00000Recent 5 Matches00000
NEP vs ITA Toss Prediction:
We predict the team that wins the toss will opt to bowl first.
NEP vs ITA Pitch Report:
The pitch at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is known to favor batsmen, especially in T20 matches. Batsmen can expect true bounce and consistent pace, making boundary-hitting relatively easier. While fast bowlers may get some initial swing, spinners might find it challenging to get assistance. Dew could be a factor in night games, affecting bowlers in the second innings.
NEP vs ITA Weather Report:
Weather conditions at Wankhede Stadium on February 12 are forecasted to be warm and mostly sunny, with temperatures ranging from 30-32°C and moderate humidity levels. The chance of rain is minimal, ensuring a smooth cricket match without any weather disruptions.
Expected Scores:
Key Notes:
Nepal vs Italy Full Squad:
Nepal: Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Sundeep Jora, Aarif Sheikh, Basir Ahamad, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Gulshan Jha, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sher Malla, Lokesh Bam.
Italy: Wayne Madsen (c), Marcus Campopiano, Gian Piero Meade, Zain Ali, Ali Hasan, Crishan Jorge Kalugamage, Harry Manenti, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Benjamin Manenti, Jaspreet Singh, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart, Thomas Draca.
Don’t miss this thrilling encounter between Nepal and Italy at the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. Stay tuned for an action-packed match at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai!
Team Analysis:
Nepal comes into this match with a strong run of form, winning four out of their last five matches. Led by Rohit Paudel, the team has shown great consistency in their performances, with players like Sandeep Lamichhane and Kushal Bhurtel making significant contributions. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Karan KC and Sompal Kami, has been effective in restricting opposition batting line-ups.
On the other hand, Italy has had a mixed bag of results in their recent matches. While they have shown flashes of brilliance, the team will be looking to improve their overall performance in this crucial encounter. With experienced players like Wayne Madsen and Grant Stewart in the squad, Italy will be aiming to bounce back with a strong showing against Nepal.
Players to Watch:
For Nepal, all eyes will be on Kushal Bhurtel, who has been in sensational form with the bat. His aggressive approach at the top of the order has provided Nepal with impetus in their innings. Sandeep Lamichhane, the leg-spin sensation, will be crucial in the middle overs with his ability to pick up key wickets.
Italy will rely on Wayne Madsen to lead from the front with the bat. The experienced campaigner has a wealth of T20 experience and will be crucial in anchoring the innings. Grant Stewart, with his all-round abilities, will play a vital role in both the batting and bowling departments for Italy.
Key Battles:
One key battle to watch out for will be between Sandeep Lamichhane and the Italian middle order. Lamichhane’s deceptive spin could pose a challenge for the Italian batsmen, and how they handle his variations will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match.
Another intriguing battle will be between Kushal Bhurtel and the Italian pacers. Bhurtel’s aggressive approach against pace bowlers has been effective for Nepal, and Italy will need to come up with a plan to contain his attacking strokeplay.
Match Prediction:
Considering Nepal’s recent form and overall balance in their squad, they are likely to start as favorites in this match against Italy. However, T20 cricket is known for its unpredictability, and Italy has the potential to spring a surprise with their talented lineup. It promises to be an exciting clash between two competitive teams vying for supremacy in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026.
With both teams eager to make their mark in the tournament, fans can expect a thrilling contest at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The stage is set for a high-octane showdown between Nepal and Italy, and cricket enthusiasts around the world will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of this enthralling encounter.
