Nepal vs Italy Playing XI – T20 World Cup 2026 Group Stage Predicted Lineups

Nepal and Italy will face off in match No. 17 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, February 12. With both sides searching for crucial group-stage points, the fixture sets up an important contest between Nepal’s rising confidence and Italy’s need for a quick response.

Nepal arrive encouraged after pushing England to the brink in their opening match. Chasing a target of 185, Rohit Paudel’s side stayed in the hunt till the final over and eventually finished on 180 for six, falling just short after Sam Curran defended 10 runs in the last over. Italy, meanwhile, endured a tough debut against Scotland, conceding 207 for four before being bowled out for 134, although there were positives in individual performances.

With group-stage points proving vital, Nepal will look to build on their strong showing against a top side, while Italy will aim to regroup quickly and put together a more complete performance.

Also check: India vs Namibia Playing XI – T20 World Cup 2026 Match 18 Predicted Lineups

Here are the Nepal vs Italy Playing XI in T20 World Cup 2026 Group Stage:

Predicted Nepal Playing XI

Top Order: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c)

Nepal are expected to open with Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh, a pairing that offers early intent and stability. Captain Rohit Paudel will bat at No.3, anchoring the innings and guiding the middle order.

Middle Order: Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam

Dipendra Singh Airee remains Nepal’s key all-round contributor, capable of accelerating and bowling useful overs. Aarif Sheikh provides balance through the middle overs, while Lokesh Bam adds finishing ability.

Lower Order: Gulshan Jha, Karan KC

Gulshan Jha and Karan KC strengthen the lower order, offering power-hitting options and depth with the ball.

Bowlers: Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, Sher Malla

The bowling attack will revolve around Sandeep Lamichhane’s leg-spin, supported by Nandan Yadav and Sher Malla, who provide pace and control across phases.

Nepal T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

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.

Predicted Italy Playing XI

Top Order: Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts

Italy are likely to open with Justin Mosca and Anthony Mosca, with JJ Smuts providing experience and stability at No.3.

Middle Order: Zain Ali, Harry Manenti, Ben Manenti

Zain Ali and Harry Manenti will be tasked with handling the middle overs, while Ben Manenti adds all-round value with bat and ball.

Lower Order: Grant Stewart, Gian Piero Meade (wk)

Grant Stewart strengthens the lower order with his pace-bowling ability, while Gian Piero Meade takes on wicketkeeping duties and adds depth with the bat.

Bowlers: Crishan Jorge, Thomas Draca, Ali Hasan

Italy’s bowling unit will rely on Thomas Draca and Ali Hasan for breakthroughs, with Crishan Jorge providing additional control.

Italy T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

Wayne Madsen (c), Marcus Campopiano, Gian Piero Meade, Zain Ali, Ali Hasan, Crishan Jorge, Harry Manenti, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Ben Manenti, Jaspreet Singh, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart, Thomas Draca.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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