T20 World Cup 2026: Predicting England XI and Nepal XI for Group C Match

England will face Nepal in a Group C fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with the contest scheduled to be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 8, starting at 3:00 PM IST.

The match presents a classic contrast in styles, with England entering as one of the tournament favourites, while Nepal look to rely on cohesion and discipline to challenge a heavyweight opponent.

With Wankhede traditionally offering true bounce and value for stroke play, team combinations and powerplay execution are expected to play a decisive role.

England’s aggressive batting depth could help them dominate, while Nepal’s spin resources and all-rounders will aim to control phases and keep the contest competitive.

Predicted England Playing XI

Top Order: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (WK), Jacob Bethell

England are likely to open with Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, a pairing designed for immediate powerplay dominance. Salt’s attacking intent complements Buttler’s ability to dictate tempo, while Jacob Bethell at No.3 adds left-handed balance and flexibility against spin.

Middle Order: Tom Banton, Harry Brook (C), Sam Curran

Harry Brook anchors the middle order as captain, offering stability and acceleration in equal measure. Tom Banton provides additional firepower, while Sam Curran’s all-round ability allows England to adapt seamlessly to match situations.

Lower Order: Will Jacks, Liam Dawson

Will Jacks strengthens the batting depth while offering off-spin options, and Liam Dawson adds control through the middle overs with his left-arm spin.

Bowlers: Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood

England’s attack is led by Jofra Archer’s pace and Adil Rashid’s wicket-taking leg-spin. Luke Wood provides left-arm variation and control, particularly effective at Wankhede.

England T20 world cup squad 2026:

Harry Brook (c), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood

Predicted Nepal Playing XI

Top Order: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (WK), Rohit Paudel (C)

Nepal’s batting revolves around aggressive starter Kushal Bhurtel and captain Rohit Paudel, who offer composure and leadership. Aasif Sheikh’s role as wicketkeeper-batter adds stability at the top.

Middle Order: Sundeep Jora, Gulsan Jha, Dipendra Singh Airee

Dipendra Singh Airee remains Nepal’s key all-rounder, capable of changing games with both bat and ball. Jora and Jha provide flexibility and finishing options.

Lower Order: Lokesh Bam, Karan KC

Lokesh Bam adds late-order hitting, while Karan KC’s seam-bowling all-round skills bring balance.

Bowlers: Sher Malla, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane

Sandeep Lamichhane leads the attack with his leg-spin, supported by Sher Malla and Nandan Yadav, who will look to exploit any early assistance.

Nepal T20 World Cup 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

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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