Nepal vs Scotland: Predicted Playing XI for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Match 32 group-stage clash

Nepal and Scotland are set to square off in a dead-rubber Group-stage fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with both associate nations already out of the competition. Having shown steady growth in white-ball cricket over the past few years, both sides possess a blend of experience and exciting match-winners capable of turning the game on its head.

With conditions expected to assist batters early and offer grip for spinners as the game progresses, team combinations will play a vital role. Both teams are likely to stick with their trusted core heading into this contest. 

Here are the Predicted Playing XI of Nepal vs Scotland for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026:

Predicted Scotland Playing XI

Top Order: George Munsey, Michael Jones

Scotland are expected to open with the aggressive George Munsey alongside Michael Jones. Munsey’s fearless approach in the powerplay can provide quick momentum, while Jones complements him with stability and the ability to rotate strike efficiently. Munsey has also been in great touch, scoring 84 against Italy. 

Middle Order: Brandon McMullen, Richie Berrington (c), Tom Bruce

Brandon McMullen brings balance with his all-round ability, while skipper Richie Berrington remains the backbone of Scotland’s batting unit. His experience in handling pressure situations makes him key in the middle overs. Tom Bruce adds composure and finishing ability, capable of accelerating when required. All three have contributed in their own ways, and will hope to continue to do so. 

Lower Order: Michael Leask, Matthew Cross (w)

Michael Leask’s power-hitting and part-time spin offer flexibility, especially in crunch moments. Wicketkeeper Matthew Cross provides stability and can anchor the innings if early wickets fall, even though he is yet to make a real mark. 

Bowlers: Mark Watt, Oliver Davidson, Brad Currie, Brad Wheal

Mark Watt will spearhead the spin attack with his control and variations, although he has just picked up two wickets so far. Oliver Davidson adds support, while Brad Currie’s ability to swing the new ball makes him a threat upfront. Brad Wheal’s experience and death-over skills round off a well-balanced bowling unit.

Predicted Nepal Playing XI

Top Order: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh

Nepal are likely to rely on Kushal Bhurtel’s attacking instincts at the top, with Aasif Sheikh providing composure. Bhurtel, after an impressive outing against England has not been in great touch. So, the duo’s start will be crucial in setting the platform.

Middle Order: Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh

Captain Rohit Paudel will anchor the innings and controls the tempo. Dipendra Singh Airee adds dynamism with his ability to counterattack under pressure; he also has been their best batter in this tournament. On the other hand, Aarif Sheikh offers stability and experience in building partnerships.

Lower Order: Gulshan Jha, Lokesh Bam

Gulshan Jha brings all-round value with aggressive batting and seam options, while Lokesh Bam’s finishing ability could prove decisive in tight scenarios, like he did against England at the same venue. 

Bowlers: Karan KC, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane

Karan KC and Sompal Kami provide pace and experience with the new ball. Nandan Yadav’s variations strengthen the attack, while Sandeep Lamichhane remains Nepal’s trump card with his wicket-taking leg-spin in the middle overs, even though he has been pretty ordinary this tournament. 

Probable Playing XIs

Scotland: George Munsey, Michael Jones, Brandon McMullen, Richie Berrington (c), Tom Bruce, Michael Leask, Matthew Cross (w), Mark Watt, Oliver Davidson, Brad Currie, Brad Wheal.

Nepal: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh, Gulshan Jha, Lokesh Bam, Karan KC, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane.

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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