Nepal look to salvage campaign against West Indies

By Govinda Regmi,Kathmandu, Feb. 15: Nepal, competing in their third ICC T20 World Cup, have endured a disappointing run of results.

In their opening Group C fixture, Nepal delivered a sensational performance against two-time champions England cricket team. They remained in contention until the final ball but ultimately suffered a narrow four-run defeat.

The team’s campaign faltered further in their second match against Italy national cricket team, who had been considered the weaker side. After earning praise for their display against England, Nepal endured an unexpected 10-wicket defeat, with lacklustre performances in both batting and bowling. The loss has left supporters around the world disheartened. Nepal now have an opportunity to regain momentum when they face the West Indies cricket team on Sunday. The match, scheduled to begin at 11:15 AM at the Wankhede Stadium, offers Nepal a chance to make history by defeating one of the tournament’s established sides.

The West Indies present another formidable challenge. Nepal’s hopes of progressing to the Super Eights are now slim, but a victory would restore pride and provide a significant boost to the squad.

The West Indies currently top the group with four points following consecutive wins in their opening two matches and will be keen to maintain their strong form against Nepal.

Nepal, meanwhile, will look to upset the odds and rally support from cricket fans. The two-time world champions are vastly experienced, yet cricket has often produced surprising results. As recently as last September, Nepal claimed a 2–1 victory in a three-match T20 series against the West Indies.

After two matches, Scotland, England and Italy each have two points in the group. Nepal are the only side yet to register a point. They will conclude their group-stage campaign against Scotland on February 17.

Meanwhile, Nepal captain Rohit Paudel has been unwell. Paudel, who fell ill following the Italy match, missed Saturday’s training session. Team officials have indicated that his condition is not serious and that he is expected to be available for the match against the West Indies.

Nepal are appearing in the T20 World Cup for the third time overall and for the second consecutive edition, having previously competed in 2014 and 2024.

Meanwhile, The West Indies cricket team completed their final preparations on Saturday ahead of their Group C clash with Nepal in the ICC T20 World Cup.

Unbeaten in the group stage, the West Indies have said they will not underestimate Nepal and are determined to extend their winning run. 

The West Indies are targeting a place in the Super Eights with a victory over Nepal. Having won their opening two matches to collect four points, they currently top the group and are in excellent form. Nepal, meanwhile, will be looking to halt the West Indies’ momentum and revive their own campaign.