Nepal Announces 24-Player Squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2026 with Star Players Ready

Cricket fans in Nepal have something big to celebrate. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has just unveiled a 24-player preliminary squad for the highly anticipated ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to unfold across India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. This announcement marks a crucial moment for Nepali cricket as the team gears up for one of the sport’s grandest stages.

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 just weeks away, Nepal’s selection committee has put together a balanced mix of experienced campaigners and promising talent. The squad will kick off their preparation with an intensive training camp starting this Monday, giving players crucial time to fine-tune their skills and build team chemistry before heading to the big tournament.

Nepal’s Star-Studded Lineup

The 24-player squad features some of the most recognizable names in Nepali cricket. Leading the charge is captain Rohit Paudel, whose leadership qualities and batting prowess have been instrumental in Nepal’s recent performances. Alongside him, the explosive Kushal Bhurtel brings firepower at the top of the order, while Sandeep Lamichhane, Nepal’s spin wizard, returns to lead the bowling attack.

Other key players who made the cut include Dipendra Singh Airee, known for his all-round capabilities, Sundeep Jora, Nandan Yadav, and wicketkeeper Aarif Sheikh. These players form the backbone of Nepal’s campaign and carry the nation’s hopes on their shoulders.

Complete Squad Breakdown

Here’s the full list of players selected for Nepal’s preliminary squad:

Top-Order Batsmen & Wicketkeepers:

• Rohit Paudel (Captain)
• Kushal Bhurtel
• Aasif Sheikh
• Aarif Sheikh
• Binod Bhandari

Middle-Order & All-Rounders:

• Dipendra Singh Airee
• Kushal Malla
• Sundeep Jora
• Gulshan Jha
• Lokesh Bam

Bowlers & Specialists:

• Sandeep Lamichhane
• Sompal Kami
• Karan KC
• Lalit Rajbanshi
• Avinash Bohara
• Sher Malla
• Bhim Sarki
• Sahab Alam
• Pratish GC

Emerging Talents:

• Nandan Yadav
• Adil Ansari
• Ishan Pandeu
• Basir Ahamad
• Rupesh Kumar Singh

What This Squad Tells Us About Nepal’s Strategy

The selection of 24 players instead of the final 15 gives Nepal flexibility and depth. This approach allows the coaching staff to assess form, fitness, and combinations during the training camp before finalizing the squad for the tournament.

The squad shows a clear emphasis on all-round options, with multiple players capable of contributing with both bat and ball. This versatility will be crucial in the T20 format where conditions can change rapidly.

Training Camp Details and Preparation

Starting Monday, all 24 players will assemble for an intensive training camp. This preparatory phase is vital for several reasons. First, it allows players who’ve been competing in different domestic leagues to sync up and work on team combinations. Second, the coaching staff can evaluate current form and fitness levels before making tough selection decisions.

The T20 World Cup 2026 schedule means Nepal has limited time to prepare, making every training session count. The camp will likely focus on adapting to subcontinental conditions, given that both India and Sri Lanka will host matches.

Key Players to Watch

Rohit Paudel has grown tremendously as a leader and batsman. His ability to anchor innings while accelerating when needed makes him invaluable in T20 cricket. At just 21, he’s already captaining his country on the world stage, showing maturity beyond his years.

Sandeep Lamichhane needs no introduction to cricket fans. Despite facing challenges off the field, his leg-spin remains world-class. His variations, control, and ability to pick wickets in the middle overs give Nepal a genuine match-winner with the ball.

Kushal Bhurtel has been in sensational form recently. His aggressive approach at the top of the order sets the tone for Nepal’s innings, and his ability to score quickly in the powerplay is a massive asset.

Dipendra Singh Airee provides that crucial all-round balance. Whether it’s finishing off innings with the bat or breaking partnerships with his medium pace, Airee’s contributions often fly under the radar but remain essential.

Nepal’s Path to the World Cup

Nepal’s journey to qualify for this tournament hasn’t been easy. The team showed tremendous character in the qualifying rounds, defeating established teams and proving they belong on the global stage. Now, with the World Cup 2026 updates confirming Nepal’s participation, expectations have soared back home.

The tournament being held in India and Sri Lanka could work in Nepal’s favor. The subcontinental conditions, similar to what players experience at home, mean Nepal won’t face the challenge of adapting to entirely foreign pitches and weather.

Challenges Ahead

While excitement is high, Nepal faces significant challenges. They’ll likely be grouped with some of the world’s best teams, and every match will test their skills and temperament. The pressure of representing a cricket-crazy nation adds another layer of difficulty.

Key challenges include:

• Facing superior bowling attacks from established cricket nations
• Maintaining composure in high-pressure situations
• Balancing aggression with game awareness
• Dealing with expectations from passionate home fans

However, T20 cricket’s unpredictable nature means Nepal can upset bigger teams on their day. Recent history has shown that Associate nations can compete when they play to their strengths.

What Success Looks Like for Nepal

For Nepal, success isn’t necessarily about winning the tournament. Competing hard in every match, winning at least a couple of games, and showcasing their talent to the world would represent a successful campaign.

More importantly, a strong showing at the World Cup would:

• Boost cricket’s popularity further in Nepal
• Attract more investment and sponsorship
• Inspire the next generation of Nepali cricketers
• Secure more opportunities for bilateral series

Fan Expectations and National Pride

Cricket in Nepal isn’t just a sport; it’s a passion that unites the nation. From Kathmandu to rural villages, fans will be glued to their screens when Nepal takes the field in February and March.

The announcement of this 24-player squad has already generated massive buzz on social media, with fans debating selections and predicting playing elevens. This engagement shows how deeply cricket resonates with Nepali audiences.

Final Squad Selection Timeline

While 24 players have been named, only 15 will make the final cut for the World Cup. The training camp will serve as the final audition for players on the bubble. Expect CAN to announce the final 15-member squad in mid to late January, giving the team ample time to prepare specific strategies and combinations.

The coaching staff will assess several factors before finalizing the squad, including current form, fitness levels, team balance, and specific roles needed for the tournament.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When does the T20 World Cup 2026 start for Nepal?
The tournament runs from February 7 to March 8, 2026, in India and Sri Lanka. Nepal’s specific match dates will be confirmed once the fixtures are finalized, but they’ll compete in the group stage.

Q: Who is captaining Nepal in the T20 World Cup 2026?
Rohit Paudel will lead Nepal as captain. The 21-year-old has been captaining the national team and brings both batting strength and leadership to the squad.

Q: How many players will be in Nepal’s final squad?
While 24 players have been selected for the preliminary squad and training camp, only 15 will make the final cut for the tournament, in line with ICC regulations.

Q: Is Sandeep Lamichhane included in Nepal’s squad?
Yes, Sandeep Lamichhane is part of the 24-player preliminary squad. He remains Nepal’s premier spinner and a key player in their World Cup plans.

Q: Where will Nepal play their World Cup matches?
Nepal will play at various venues across India and Sri Lanka. The specific venues depend on their group allocation, which will be announced closer to the tournament.

Q: When will the final 15-member squad be announced?
While CAN hasn’t confirmed an exact date, the final squad is expected to be announced in mid to late January 2026, after the training camp concludes and the team management evaluates all players.