Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane Strikes on the first ball in the ENG vs NEP T20 World Cup 2026 match 5

The ENG vs NEP Group C Match 5 of the T20 World Cup 2026 got off to an exciting start as Sandeep Lamichhane struck on the very first ball of his spell. The Nepal star gave his team an early breakthrough by dismissing Tom Banton for just 2 off 5 balls, putting England under early pressure at the Wankhede Stadium.

England had won the toss and chose to bat first, hoping for a strong start from their attacking top order on a batting-friendly pitch. With a large crowd in the stadium and millions watching across the world, all eyes were on England’s batters.

Nepal, however, had different plans. Lamichhane’s early wicket lifted the team’s energy and fired up the crowd. The dismissal set the tone for the match and showed Nepal’s intent against one of the tournament favourites.

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Nepal Leg-Spinner Sandeep Lamichhane Delivers a Dream Start

Besides Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane’s delivery, the spotlight was also on debutant Sher Malla, who was bowling his first over in international cricket. Malla looked calm as he marked his run-up, showing no signs of pressure on the big stage.

Bowling a full ball down the leg side, Malla tempted Phil Salt into an early flick. The England opener went for the shot but mistimed it badly. The ball took a top edge and went straight up, where Sandeep Lamichhane, stationed at short fine leg, judged it well and took a clean catch to complete the dismissal.

Wankhede Crowd Erupts After Magical Moment

Malla and Lamichhane’s celebration showed pure joy, as the youngster punched the air and briefly lost his balance in excitement. The moment summed up the emotion on the field after the early breakthrough.

The Wankhede crowd, mostly neutral, applauded loudly, while fans on social media praised the dismissal as one of the best debut moments of the T20 World Cup 2026. For Nepal, the wicket was more than just an early success. On the biggest stage in world cricket, Malla and Lamichhane’s effort proved that Nepal truly belonged.