KATHMANDU: The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has officially unveiled a 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
Continuing the team’s rebuilding phase, experienced batting all-rounder Rohit Paudel has been entrusted with the captaincy for the global tournament. His calm leadership and growing maturity at the international level have made him a central figure in Nepal’s white-ball setup. Star all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee has been named vice-captain, reflecting his consistent performances and influence within the squad.
Nepal’s bowling attack will once again revolve around leg-spin sensation Sandeep Lamichhane, who remains the team’s primary wicket-taking option in the shortest format. He will be supported in the spin department by left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi, while Dipendra Airee and Basir Ahamad add valuable part-time spin choices, giving the side tactical flexibility on spin-friendly surfaces in the subcontinent.
A notable feature of the squad is its strong all-round core. Alongside Paudel and Airee, players such as Gulshan Jha, Aarif Sheikh, and Sompal Kami provide balance with their dual skills, allowing Nepal to adapt to different match situations without compromising team combination.
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In the batting department, Nepal have retained an aggressive yet dependable lineup. Kushal Bhurtel is expected to play a key role at the top of the order, while Aasif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam, Sundeep Jora, and Nandan Yadav offer depth and stability through the middle order. This batting depth is seen as crucial for competing against higher-ranked nations in pressure situations.
The pace attack will be jointly led by Sompal Kami and Karan KC, both known for their ability to strike early and contribute with the bat down the order. They will be backed by emerging quicks Nandan Yadav and Sher Malla, adding variety and energy to Nepal’s seam bowling options.
Nepal have been placed in Group C for the tournament and face a challenging start to their campaign. They will open their T20 World Cup journey against two-time champions England on February 8 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The same venue will host Nepal’s remaining group-stage matches against Italy (February 12), West Indies (February 15), and Bangladesh (February 17).
The 2026 edition marks Nepal’s second appearance in the Men’s T20 World Cup. Their debut came in 2024, co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA, where they exited in the group stage after losing all four matches. With increased international exposure and a more settled squad, Nepal will be eager to deliver a stronger showing this time around.
Nepal squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee (vc), 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
