Nepal has unveiled a 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, captained by Rohit Paudel with Dipendra Singh Airee as vice-captain. Hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, the squad blends experience and youth, with spin star Sandeep Lamichhane anchoring the attack.
The Cricket Association of Nepal has announced a 15-player squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, confirming Rohit Paudel as captain and Dipendra Singh Airee as vice-captain. The tournament, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will run from February 7 to March 8, positioning Nepal for a high-stakes group stage.
Nepal’s roster features a balanced mix of seasoned performers and emerging talent. The 15 include 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, and Lokesh Bam. The squad’s spin strength centers on Lamichhane, backed by Rajbanshi and versatile all-round options.
The selection reflects Nepal’s intent to elevate consistency and competitiveness after recent global outings, with depth in all-rounders and a spin-centric blueprint designed for subcontinental conditions. Coverage around the announcement underscored “talent aplenty,” signaling confidence in the squad’s balance and adaptability on the world stage.
With expectations of an aggressive approach in the group phase, Nepal’s leaders will look to convert their domestic form and franchise experience into disciplined performances against strong opposition, targeting clutch moments in the middle overs and fielding excellence to tilt close games.
Notable updates and major takeaways
Leadership call: Rohit Paudel named captain; Dipendra Singh Airee appointed vice-captain.
Full squad named: Paudel, Airee, Lamichhane, Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Jora, Aarif Sheikh, Basir Ahamad, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Gulshan Jha, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sher Malla, Lokesh Bam.
Spin-led strategy: Lamichhane to spearhead spin with support from Rajbanshi and all-rounders.
Tournament timeline: India–Sri Lanka to host from February 7 to March 8, 2026.
Intent and style: Blend of experience and youth, with an aggressive outlook for the group stage.
Progress marker: Aim to improve on learnings from recent T20 World Cup participation.
Conclusion
Nepal’s 2026 T20 World Cup squad signals a clear, confident plan: steady leadership, spin-driven control, and multi-skilled flexibility. If they execute with discipline, this talent-rich unit could turn promise into breakthrough performances on cricket’s biggest short-format stage.
Sources: ICC, The Tribune, Zee News, Cricket Country, Lokmat Times
