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Kathmandu: The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup gets underway this Sunday, with India and Sri Lanka serving as joint hosts. In the opening match of the tournament, Nepal will face reigning world champions England—an encounter that represents not just the start of a competition, but a dream journey for Nepali cricket.

Nepal is set to begin its T20 World Cup campaign for the second time, once again taking on England. All of Nepal’s matches in the tournament will be played at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. For Nepali cricket fans, this moment has been long awaited and deeply cherished.

Nepal first featured in the T20 World Cup in 2014 in Bangladesh. After that appearance, the team waited nearly a decade for another opportunity on the world stage. In the 2024 edition, Nepal impressed the global audience with spirited performances against South Africa and Bangladesh. The match against South Africa, in particular—where Nepal fell short by just one run after coming agonizingly close to victory—remains a memorable moment for Nepali cricket supporters.

Under the leadership of captain Rohit Kumar Paudel, Nepal continues its World Cup journey with renewed confidence. Alongside him, Sompal Kami has created history by becoming the first Nepali cricketer to feature in three T20 World Cups. The dedication and hard work of these players have played a vital role in placing Nepal firmly on the global cricket map.

In this World Cup, Nepal has been placed in Group C along with two-time champions West Indies, former champions England, Scotland, and Italy. Scotland secured its place in the group after Bangladesh declined to play the World Cup matches in India.

For the Nepali players, this tournament is more than just a series of matches—it is a matter of national pride. Every ball bowled, every run scored, and every wicket taken carries the emotions of millions of Nepalis. As a result, Sunday’s match is set to be not only a landmark moment in Nepal’s cricketing history, but also a day of celebration for the entire nation.