Nepal T20 World Cup Victory Seals Memorable Finish in Mumbai
Mumbai, February 18, 2026 – The Nepal T20 World Cup Victory over Scotland provided a fitting finale to their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 journey. Nepal registered a memorable seven-wicket win at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, marking their first tournament victory since 2014.
The triumph was powered by Dipendra Singh Airee’s explosive unbeaten half-century. Although Nepal had already been eliminated from Super 8 contention, the victory restored pride. Their supporters turned the stadium into a sea of blue as the team signed off with confidence and renewed optimism.
Nepal’s Chase and the T20 World Cup Victory
Strong Opening Partnership Sets the Platform
Chasing a competitive target of 171, Nepal began confidently. Openers Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh provided a solid foundation.
The pair raced to 56 without loss during the powerplay. Bhurtel struck 43 off 32 balls with several boundaries. Sheikh supported him with a composed 30.
Scotland’s Michael Leask then triggered a mini-collapse. He removed Bhurtel, Sheikh, and captain Rohit Paudel. His figures of 3/30 shifted momentum.
At 98/3 in 13.2 overs, Nepal faced pressure.
Airee and Jha Seal the Nepal T20 World Cup Victory
Dipendra Singh Airee and Gulsan Jha responded with composure and aggression. They stitched an unbeaten 73-run partnership in just 36 balls.
Airee, named Player of the Match, scored 50 not out from 23 deliveries. He struck four fours and three sixes. His innings included only two dot balls.
Jha contributed 24 not out from 17 balls. He hit the winning runs with four balls remaining.
Captain Paudel later said, “This win means everything to us. We have shown that we can compete.”
Scotland’s Innings and Nepal’s Bowling Response
Jones and Munsey Provide Early Momentum
Scotland, batting first on a used pitch, posted 170/7. Opener Michael Jones led the charge with 71 off 45 balls.
Jones and George Munsey added 80 runs for the first wicket. They reached 52 without loss in the powerplay.
Nepal’s bowlers then tightened control.
Kami and Yadav Lead the Fightback
Veteran Sompal Kami spearheaded the comeback with figures of 3/25. His spell included a knuckleball dismissal of Jones and a stunning one-handed catch.
Nandan Yadav supported with 2/34. Scotland suffered a mid-innings collapse of 6/30 in just 27 balls.
Despite a late six from Mark Watt, Scotland failed to capitalise fully.
Group Stage Journey and Missed Opportunities
Close Losses and Costly Defeats
This Nepal T20 World Cup Victory was their third in tournament history and first in 12 years. It followed a turbulent Group C campaign.
Nepal nearly defeated England cricket team in their opener. Chasing 184, they needed ten runs in the final over. They lost by four runs.
Momentum faded afterward. Debutants Italy national cricket team thrashed Nepal by 10 wickets. Italy chased 123 without loss.
Nepal then lost to West Indies cricket team by nine wickets after posting 133/8.
Points Table Implications
Italy’s dominance, led by the Mosca brothers, surprised many. Had Nepal beaten England and Italy, they could have earned four points.
This might have tied them with Scotland and Italy. Qualification would then depend on net run rate.
Instead, West Indies and England advanced. Nepal finished last with one win from four matches.
Progress Since 2024 and Upward Momentum
Improvement Over Previous Campaigns
Nepal’s 2026 performance surpassed the 2024 edition. In 2024, they went winless despite close contests against South Africa and Bangladesh.
Since 2024, Nepal has won 16 of 24 T20Is. They also secured a landmark series victory over West Indies in the UAE.
These results indicate steady improvement.
Emerging Core of Match-Winners
Players like Airee and Sompal Kami have become consistent performers. Youngsters continue to emerge through domestic competitions.
This growing depth strengthens Nepal’s long-term prospects.
Structural and Developmental Challenges
Governance and Financial Stability
Experts emphasise organisational reform. The Cricket Association of Nepal must stabilise after past governance issues.
Consistent domestic structures like the Nepal Premier League have helped talent development. However, sustained funding remains essential.
ICC support and corporate sponsorships have improved finances. Still, more investment is needed for infrastructure and youth academies.
Training and Technical Development
Access to high-performance facilities remains limited. International coaches, including consultant Nic Pothas, have contributed to improvement.
After the West Indies defeat, Pothas observed, “We are not learning fast enough. Execution must improve.”
Better training exposure is critical.
Need for Greater International Exposure
Limited Opportunities Against Full Members
Captain Paudel has stressed the lack of regular exposure. Nepal rarely plays bilateral series against Full Member nations.
The West Indies tour demonstrated the benefits of such opportunities. It built confidence and resilience.
Inviting teams like Australia cricket team or England for home series could elevate standards.
Building Global Recognition
High-profile matches would attract crowds and sponsors. They would also inspire young players across Nepal.
With a passionate fanbase and rising stars, Nepal has strong foundations.
Overall Outlook After the Nepal T20 World Cup Victory
The Nepal T20 World Cup Victory over Scotland represents more than a single match. It reflects progress, resilience, and future potential.
As the tournament moves into the Super 8 stage, Nepal return home with valuable lessons. Their “Cardiac Kids” reputation remains intact.
However, with structural reforms, better exposure, and sustained investment, future close matches may end in greater glory.
If these areas are addressed, this World Cup will not remain their peak. Instead, it could become the platform for Nepal’s rise among Associate cricket’s elite by 2030.
