While the senior national team is preparing to play the Australian Capital Territory in Canberra on August 26 during its extension in Australia as part of the senior men's national team's Top End T20 Series, another Nepali team, Nepal 'A', is to be involved on August 26 as well. The 'A' team will start its tour of Guwahati, India, where it will play the Assam State team in a T20 series of five matches from August 26 to September 3, 2025.

The announcement was made on Saturday by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and announced not only the details of the tour but also the names of the 16-person squad. The CAN also stated this series will provide the opportunity for Nepal's second-string side to gain important match exposure against a strong Indian state unit. Assam has produced many fine cricketers within India's domestic structure, and it will be a tough challenge for the young Nepali group overall.

Making opportunities for Emerging Players

The squad will be captained by Anil Kumar Sah, who will double as wicketkeeper. Sah's higher-level experience is anticipated to lead the relatively young squad. With him are some promising hitters, some promising bowlers, and some promising all-rounders who will be fighting to show their worth in a foreign country.

According to CAN, the focus of the tour to Guwahati is to provide exposure to Nepal's emerging players in a competitive setup and opposition. The senior team is focused on their International duties, so player opportunities ensure a continual pipeline of emerging players coming through into the national teams.

ALSO SEE: Shubman Gill vs Joe Root – Statistical comparison after 37 Test matches

An Important Move for Nepal Cricket

The tour is timely, given Nepal's improving cricket presence. The matches will not only assist young players in moving towards higher levels of opposition, but also will aim to prepare them for future international duties.

For cricket fans in Nepal, the dual action of the senior team in Australia and the 'A' team in India is an exciting time and indicates a growing depth and commitment of Nepal cricket in developing its players.

Nepal A Squad: Anil Sah (c, wk), Arjun Gharti Magar (wk), Trit Raj Das, Subh Kansakar, Ishan Pandey, Dev Khanal, Sandeep Jora, Bibek K. Yadav, Pawan Sharoff, Basir Ahmed, Akash Chand, Kamal S. Airee, Adil Alam Ansari, Sher Malla, Yubraj Khatri, Sagar Dhakal.

The Nepal national cricket team stepped into a new era on Sunday as the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) unveiled the team’s fresh jersey during a special ceremony in the capital. The event was marked by excitement and pride, not only for the striking new design but also for the announcement of a landmark sponsorship deal with NAASA Securities.

The three-year agreement, valued at USD 544,614, will see NAASA Securities become the main sponsor of the national team. Their logo will feature prominently on the front of the new jersey, symbolizing a partnership aimed at supporting the growth of cricket in Nepal. CAN officials said the deal would provide vital financial backing for infrastructure, training, and grassroots programs.

The new kit proudly showcases Nepal’s identity. Retaining the traditional red and blue colour palette, it features modern design elements, including the national flag on both shoulders and symbolic imagery of Mount Everest and the one-horned rhinoceros. It blends heritage with a fresh, competitive look, something both players and fans can rally behind.

New Look and New Support Fuel Nepal’s Cricket Ambitions

The launch comes at a pivotal moment for Nepal cricket. The team is set to depart for Australia to participate in the Top End T20 Series in Darwin, scheduled from August 14 to 24. This series will serve as a key warm-up ahead of the T20 World Cup Qualifiers, where Nepal will aim to secure a spot on the global stage.

ALSO SEE: [Watch] RCB Power-Hitter Smashes Enormous 109m Six in AUS vs SA 1st T20I

Watch the video:

राष्ट्रिय क्रिकेट टिमको जर्सी प्रायोजक अब नासा सेक्युरिटिज
News Link : https://t.co/LikcxRGIHO pic.twitter.com/FivLHK6en2

— Onlinekhabar (@Online_khabar) August 10, 2025

🇳🇵 CAN welcomes NAASA Securities on board as the Principal Jersey Sponsor of the Nepal Men’s Cricket Team, strengthening the partnership for the growth of #NepalCricket. 📣 pic.twitter.com/bxBVN206sb

— CAN (@CricketNep) August 10, 2025

Speaking at the event, CAN representatives expressed confidence that the partnership with NAASA Securities would not only strengthen the team’s immediate preparations but also contribute to long-term development. NAASA officials, in turn, praised the national team for inspiring a new generation of cricketers and promised continued support.

For Nepal’s passionate cricket supporters, the unveiling signals more than just a change in apparel. It marks a renewed commitment to progress, professionalism, and the dream of making a bigger impact in world cricket. With a fresh jersey, a strong sponsor, and a determined squad, Nepal heads into its next challenge with optimism and ambition.

In a landmark move for Associate cricket, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and the Kuwait Cricket Board have agreed to launch an annual bilateral series for both men’s and women’s teams starting in 2026. Finalized during the ICC AGM in Singapore, the agreement includes a minimum of three T20 Internationals each year, with the possibility of additional 50-over matches, to be played on a home-and-away basis.

The objective of this affiliation is to create regular international exposure for two of the potential Associate teams in Asia. For Nepal, coming off their appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, this agreement will provide regular opportunities to play at the top levels of international cricket, and also prepare and condition their squads leading into global qualifiers. For Kuwait, it provides a chance to experience sport at a higher level regularly, as they prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Asia Regional Qualifiers.

Crucially, the agreement gives equal importance to women’s cricket. Both boards have committed to featuring women's teams annually, a significant step in promoting gender inclusion and nurturing the women’s game in regions where such exposure has traditionally been limited.

ALSO SEE: Shubman Gill reveals real story of sledging England during ENG vs IND 3rd Test at Lord's

Nepal and Kuwait to play yearly cricket series from 2026, boosting development and preparation for ICC events

The memories to be experienced from this partnership will (hopefully) lead to wider development outcomes. Nepal should expect benefits in stadium infrastructure development as well as closer connections with domestic and international formats as it plays matches, and benefits from the income flow of tourism and the local ownership. In Kuwait, with a sizeable active Nepali population base, matches should attract a following, like an international event with chants, song, and dance creating a carnival around cricket.

The bilateral matches also provide an important opportunity pathway for player development, given that both sides were placed in the same group for the 2026 Asia Regional Qualifiers. This not only increases the competitive nature of the opportunity, but also helps create a narrative of these important moves into ICC events.

In summary, the partnership between Nepal and Kuwait is a thoughtful and proactive initiative, one that highlights how Associate members can collaborate to grow and develop the sport, enhance their level of competitiveness, and develop the global appeal of cricket, and becomes a useful template for others.

In an exciting ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 match at Forthill, Dundee, Nepal secured an amazing one-wicket win against Scotland in a record chase of 297 runs - Nepal's highest successful ODI chase ever. After Nepal had moved from 152-2 to 192-7 after Scotland's Brandon McMullen (3-47) sparked a collapse, all-rounder Karan KC came in to bat at nine and turned the game with a huge knock of 65* from only 41 balls, with four sixes and three fours, as Nepal edged to an amazing finish amid passionate fans waiting as the final over approached.

After Nepal had won the toss and elected to field, Scotland had posted a formidable 296-7 innings, with Charlie Tear (80), Finlay McCreath (55), and Richie Berrington (40), and vital contributions were also made by Matthew Cross (39). Nepal's bowlers, led by Karan KC (2-43) and Sompal Kami (2-66), were able to control the damaging runs that Scotland could have made, but chasing 297 was always going to be a tall order. Nepal’s reply started strongly with Kushal Bhurtel’s 53 and Bhim Sharki’s 40, but the loss of key wickets, including captain Rohit Paudel, shifted momentum until Karan’s heroics reignited hope.

The final over, delivered by Mark Watt, was pure theater; needing 7 runs with only two wickets in hand, Nepal lost Sandeep Lamichhane on Watt's first ball, stumped by George Munsey. A wide and a single held Karan on strike, requiring five runs from three balls. Karan hit two twos, making scores level before Watt’s second wide—a hefty wide, which might have brushed Karan’s pad—sealed the win, sparking a pitch invasion by jubilant Nepal fans.

A Defining Victory

This stunning upset saw Nepal, ranked second from the bottom in the League 2 table and four places below Scotland, overcome a recent loss to a Scotland A side in a warm-up match. Karan KC's all-round effort, which saw him take 2-43 and record a winning score of 65*, has brought him wide acclaim for his poise under pressure. This result has given Nepal's campaign a new lease on life, with the potential to shake up the League 2 picture.

Watch the video here

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by ICC (@icc)

Also Read: IPL 2025: RCB vs PBKS Final - Narendra Modi stadium stats and preview

After this historic win, Nepal will move on to their next ODI tri-series match against the Netherlands on Wednesday at Forthill, even keener to win. The win not only represents a boost in confidence, but it also suggests they can challenge higher-ranked teams during the World Cup qualifying process.

Sandeep Lamichhane, a major cricket talent from Nepal, was convicted last year for raping a minor. Recently, the victim revealed something surprising: she claimed there was no rape and that her accusation was influenced by certain people and organizations.

In May, the Kathmandu District Court cleared Lamichhane of the charges, allowing him to participate in the T20 World Cup. With the controversy now less prominent, the victim who had initially reported the case under the name Gaushala 26, shared details about the situation that she believes should never have occurred.

“There was no rape, some people and organisations forced me to file the case, I didn’t want to do it,” Gaushala 26 said.

Lamichhane also played in the Indian Premier League (IPL), joining the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) before the 2018 season. Since then, he has participated in various other franchise leagues, including the Big Bash League (BBL) and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

At just 23 years old, Lamichhane has already achieved many records in his cricket career, showcasing his remarkable talent and potential.

India ended their league matches with a perfect win record by beating Nepal by 82 runs in Dambulla on Tuesday (July 23). With this victory, India secured a spot in the semifinals. Earlier, Purla also confirmed their semifinal place from Group A by defeating UAE.

Shafali Verma’s Knock Leads India’s Strong Batting Performance

Shafali Verma’s impressive 81 off 48 balls and her 122-run opening stand with Dayalan Hemalatha (47 off 42) set the tone for India’s batting. Although the run rate slowed after the openers fell, India posted a strong total of 178. This proved too much for Nepal as Deepti Sharma (3-13) and Radha Yadav (2-12) shone with the ball.

Even without regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Pooja Vastrakar, India had enough strength to comfortably outplay Nepal. The gap in experience and skill was clear, as India faced little challenge. Despite their limited resources and inexperience, Nepal fought hard, especially with the ball, to keep India from a bigger total after the strong opening stand. However, these small victories were all Nepal could achieve as India cruised to victory.

India’s batting phases

Powerplay: Strong start with new opening pair

Stand in captain Smriti Mandhana gave others a chance to bat, resulting in a new opening pair. Dayalan Hemalatha and Shafali Verma started, with Shafali quickly hitting boundaries to set the pace. Hemalatha struggled with timing, but India still had a solid start.

Middle overs: Shafali accelerates

Nepal hoped for relief after the powerplay, but Shafali kept hitting boundaries, including a big hit off Rubina Chhetry. Hemalatha also hit a six but couldn’t find rhythm. She was caught in the 12th over, but Shafali continued India’s strong progress.

Death overs: Nepal slows down India

Nepal did well to limit India to a run rate of just over 9 in the final overs. Shafali fell in the 16th over, slowing the pace. Jemimah Rodrigues’ 15-ball 28 pushed the total past 175, but Nepal managed to prevent a bigger score.

Nepal’s batting phases

Powerplay: India’s seamers strike early

Opener Samjhana Khadka started strong but was bowled by Arundhati Reddy in the second over. Kabita Kunwar also fell quickly. Nepal captain Indu Barma and Sita Rana Magar hit a few boundaries, but the overall scoring was too slow.

Middle overs: Nepal struggles against India’s bowlers

Nepal’s chase stalled after a weak powerplay. Arundhati Reddy and Deepti Sharma took crucial wickets, and the scoring rate dropped. Only three boundaries came in the middle overs, with Deepti and Radha Yadav controlling the game. Rubina Chhetry hit a six but soon fell to Deepti.

Death overs: India wraps up the game

The match was decided early, with Nepal only trying to bat out their overs. Bindu Rawal’s unbeaten 19-ball 17 helped Nepal avoid a complete collapse. Deepti and Radha each took a wicket, but Nepal’s last-wicket pair survived the full 20 overs.

Player of the Match (Shafali Verma)

“I just tried to back my strenghth, and it worked. The consistency is coming, but I want to finish better. To score 200 [like she did against South Africa recently] is a big thing for a batter, and I got a lot of confidence from it. I hope I continue to do well for the team.”

The Indian women’s cricket team put up an impressive score of 178 runs against Nepal in their final group stage match of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024. Opener Shafali Verma was the standout performer, scoring 81 runs off 48 balls.

India won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision that worked out well. Shafali Verma and Dayalan Hemalatha provided a strong start, bringing the team to 91 runs within the first 10 overs. They continued their good form, adding 23 more runs in the next 3 overs.

Shafali Verma shines with 81 runs

Shafali Verma along with Dayalan Hemalatha, laid a solid foundation for India with a partnership of 122 runs. Sita Rana Magar was Nepal’s top wicket taker, claiming 2 wickets for 25 runs in 4 overs.

Hemalatha was dismissed in the 14th over after scoring 47 runs from 42 balls. Soon after, Shafali was stumped while attempting a big shot having hit 12 fours and a six in her innings.

Final overs Surge: India scores 35 runs

After the fall of Hemalatha and Shafali, India’s scoring rate slowed down. They managed only 12 runs in the 16th and 17th overs. However, the team bounced back in the final 3 overs, scoring 35 runs to finish their innings at 178 runs.

Overall, India’s strong start and late surge ensured a solid total. Despite a slowdown in the middle overs, the team’s final push helped them set a challenging target for Nepal.

In a move to promote women’s cricket and ensure widespread support, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced free entry for spectators for the upcoming Women’s T20 Asia Cup starting from July 19.

Details of the Women’s T20 Asia Cup

The ninth edition of the Women’s T20 Asia Cup is set to take place in Sri Lanka, with all matches hosted at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla. The tournament, running from July 19 to July 28, will feature eight teams: Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, UAE, Nepal, Malaysia, and Thailand. This highly anticipated event will serve as a key competition ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup later this year.

See Also: Mark Wood replaces James Anderson in England’s squad for the second Test against West Indies

Sri Lanka Cricket’s initiative

By offering free entry to all matches, SLC aims to fill the stands and create an electrifying atmosphere for the players. According to SLC Vice President Ravin Wickramaratne, the board is committed to hosting a successful tournament that will elevate women’s cricket on the global stage.

“Sri Lanka Cricket, with the support of the Asian Cricket Council, is planning to conduct a highly successful tournament, as a successful outcome of this tournament will help advance women’s cricket on the world stage,’ said Ravin Wickramaratne in a press release.

Group Divisions and Fixtures

The eight participating teams have been divided into two groups. Group A consists of India, Pakistan, UAE, and Nepal, while Group B includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Thailand. The tournament will kick off with the UAE facing Nepal, followed by a high-stakes match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan.

India’s campaign kickoff

India, the defending champions, will begin their campaign against Pakistan. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, given the fierce rivalry between the two teams. India’s dominance in the tournament, having won seven out of the eight editions, adds to the excitement and pressure for both teams.

Tournament Format

The Women’s T20 Asia Cup will feature a total of 15 matches, culminating in the final on July 28. The tournament’s T20 format is not only fast-paced and exciting but also serves as a preparation ground for the Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh later this year. Teams will be looking to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum ahead of the global event.

NED vs NEP Match Preview

The 7th match of the T20 World Cup 2024 will be played between Netherlands and Nepal. The match will take place on June 4, 2024, at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, Texas, beginning at 9:00 PM IST. Netherlands defeated T20 World Cup winners Sri Lanka in warm-up matches, demonstrating their current form. They also defeated South Africa in the ODI World Cup 2023, impressing everyone with their performance. Nepal, on the other hand, appeared out of sorts as they lost their warm-up match against Canada. Scott Edwards will captain the Netherlands, while Rohit Paudel will lead Nepal.

NED vs NEP Match Details

Netherlands vs Nepal – 7th Match, T20 World Cup 2024

Venue: Grand Prairie Stadium – Dallas

Date & Time: 04th June 2024 at 09:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

NED vs NEP Venue Stats

NED vs NEP Pitch Report

The pitch at Grand Prairie Stadium provides plenty of runs, with the highest individual score in the most recent match being 94. We can expect another high-scoring game, with an average innings score of around 180.

NED vs NEP Weather Report

The weather forecast predicts a cloudy day in Dallas on Tuesday. The temperature is expected to range between 26 and 29°C.

NED vs NEP Last Five Matches

NED vs NEP Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, warm-up wrap: India vs Bangladesh

NED vs NEP Probable Playing XIs:

Nepal Probable Playing XIs

Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Sundeep Jora, Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Abinash Bohara, Lalit Rajbanshi

Netherlands Probable Playing XIs

Michael Levitt, Max O’Dowd, Vikramjit Singh, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Bas de Leede, Scott Edwards (c & wk), Wesley Barresi, Logan van Beek, Tim Pringle, Paul van Meekeren, Vivian Kingma

Topmost Picks for NED vs NEP Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Nepal

• Kushal Malla – Kushal Malla scored 37 off 30 in the warm up match against Canada. He is among the international record holders with 2nd fastest century in the T20Is which he smashed last year. 
• Karan KC – Karan has played 65 T20Is and he is 11 wickets away from reaching the 100-wicket mark in this format. He has an impressive bowling average of 18.93.

Top Picks – Netherlands

• Max O’Dowd – Max has ample experience of 66 T20Is in which he has scored 1774 runs at a good average of 29.57. Coming at the top-order, he can give the required start to the innings in the powerplay.
• Logan van Beek – Logan van Beek has taken 29 wickets in 26 T20Is at an average of 19.69. In the warm up match he finished with 1/7 in 2 overs.

NED vs NEP Probable Winners:

Netherlands defeated Sri Lanka in the warm-up match, and with a victory over South Africa in the ODI World Cup last year, they demonstrated that they are no less than any top international team. Nepal has a good head-to-head record against the Netherlands, but defeating them in the T20 World Cup will be a challenge. We believe that the Netherlands will emerge victorious in this game because their experienced players will make a difference. Considering the team combination, Netherlands are expected to win this match.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is set to bring an unparalleled level of excitement and competition. As cricket fans around the world gear up for this grand event, all eyes are on Group A, where traditional rivals India and Pakistan co-hosts USA and Canada, and the spirited Irish team will clash in a battle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.

Group D Overview

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is shaping to be an exciting event, and Group D promises to be the centre of intense competition. This group features former champions Sri Lanka alongside powerhouse teams like South Africa, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands, with Nepal adding an element of unpredictability. Each team brings unique strengths and strategies, setting the stage for thrilling encounters.

Group D Preview

1. South Africa’s Squad Analysis

South Africa is arguably the strongest side in Group D, boasting a formidable lineup led by Aiden Markram. The Proteas are known for their power-packed performance and determination to win. With seasoned players like Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada, and Heinrich Klaasen, they are a force to be reckoned with.

See Also: T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli’s massive six off Haris Rauf voted ‘Greatest Moment’ in tournament’s history

Key Players

Heinrich Klaasen

Heinrich Klaasen is a player to watch in this tournament. His current World Cup cycle numbers are outstanding, with an average of 41 and a strike rate of 182. Klaasen’s ability to handle spin easily, averaging 59 and striking at 192, makes him a critical player for South Africa.

Tabraiz Shamsi

Tabraiz Shamsi, the left-arm spinner, is South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in this cycle. Shamsi will be pivotal in South Africa’s bowling attack with nearly 50 career wickets in the Caribbean and extensive experience in T20 internationals and the Caribbean Premier League.

Fixtures

3 June: Sri Lanka vs South Africa, New York
8 June: Netherlands vs South Africa, New York
10 June: South Africa vs Bangladesh, New York
14 June: South Africa vs Nepal, St. Vincent

South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Ottniel Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs

2. Sri Lanka’s Squad Analysis

Sri Lanka, led by Wanindu Hasaranga, boasts a well-balanced squad capable of challenging any team in Group D. With players like Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, and Dhananjaya De Silva in their ranks, they have the firepower to post competitive totals.

Key Players

Kusal Mendis

Kusal Mendis has been a standout performer for Sri Lanka, especially in the 50-over World Cup in India. He has scored nearly 1,200 runs in this World Cup cycle, and his ability to handle left-arm spin will be crucial in the Caribbean conditions.

Matheesha Pathirana

Matheesha Pathirana, the right-arm fast bowler, is reminiscent of Sri Lankan great Lasith Malinga. With speeds touching 93 mph and an impressive performance in the Indian Premier League, Pathirana could be the bowler to watch in the tournament.

Fixtures

3 June: Sri Lanka vs South Africa, New York
7 June: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, Dallas
11 June: Sri Lanka vs Nepal, Florida
16 June: Sri Lanka vs Netherlands, St. Lucia

Sri Lanka: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka. Travelling Reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage.

3. Bangladesh’s Squad Analysis

Bangladesh enters the tournament with a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents. The team, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, includes experienced players like Mahmudullah and Shakib Al Hasan. However, there are concerns over the form of opener Litton Das and the fitness of vice-captain Taskin Ahmed.

Key Players

Towhid Hridoy

Towhid Hridoy is an exciting talent for Bangladesh. Coming off two 400+ run seasons in the Bangladesh Premier League, Hridoy has developed his all-round game significantly, averaging more than 40 against spin and striking at over 150 against pace bowling.

Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan remains a pivotal player for Bangladesh. The left-arm spinner is closing in on 50 wickets in this World Cup cycle, maintaining an economy rate of just over six an over. His experience in the Caribbean and the US, where he has taken 50 wickets at an average below 20, will be vital for Bangladesh.

Fixtures

7 June: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, Dallas
10 June: South Africa vs Bangladesh, New York
13 June: Bangladesh vs Netherlands, St. Vincent
16 June: Bangladesh vs Nepal, St. Vincent

Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Taskin Ahmed, Litton Das, Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Shakib Al Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmud Ullah Riyad, Jaker Ali Anik, Tanvir Islam, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib. Travelling reserves: Afif Hossain, Hasan Mahmud

4. Nepal’s Squad Analysis

Nepal, led by the promising Rohit Paudel, brings a youthful vitality to the tournament. Despite their relative lack of experience, Nepal’s recent performances, including Paudel’s impressive form against West Indies A, suggest they have the potential to cause upsets.

Key Players

Dipendra Airee

Dipendra Airee is known for his explosive batting, especially in the final overs. With over 500 runs since the last World Cup at a strike rate of 191, Airee’s aggressive style makes him a key player for Nepal.

Abinash Bohara

Abinash Bohara, the right-arm seamer, has taken more wickets for Nepal than any other bowler since the last World Cup. His ability to bowl effectively in the death overs, with an average of just 17, will be crucial for Nepal’s success.

Fixtures

4 June: Netherlands vs Nepal, Dallas
11 June: Sri Lanka vs Nepal, Florida
14 June: South Africa vs Nepal, St. Vincent
16 June: Bangladesh vs Nepal, St. Vincent

Nepal: Rohit Paudel (c), Aasif Sheikh, Anil Kumar Sah, Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Lalit Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Pratis GC, Sundeep Jora, Abinash Bohara, Sagar Dhakal, Kamal Singh Airee

5. Netherlands’s Squad Analysis

The Netherlands has a history of springing surprises in ICC tournaments, and they aim to continue that trend in the T20 World Cup 2024. The team, led by Scott Edwards, includes experienced players like Bas de Leede and Wesley Barresi, with Michael Levitt adding depth to their batting lineup.

Key Players

Sybrand Engelbrecht

Sybrand Engelbrecht has made an immediate impact since returning to cricket and joining the Dutch setup. Engelbrecht’s middle-order batting will be key for the Netherlands, averaging more than 50 at a strike rate above 150 in T20s.

Logan van Beek

Logan van Beek has become a leading bowler for the Netherlands in T20s. With the most wickets of any Dutch bowler in this World Cup cycle, van Beek’s ability to bowl at a good pace and excel at death makes him a crucial player for the Netherlands.

Fixtures

4 June: Netherlands vs Nepal, Dallas
8 June: Netherlands vs South Africa, New York
13 June: Bangladesh vs Netherlands, St. Vincent
16 June: Sri Lanka vs Netherlands, St. Lucia

Netherlands: Scott Edwards (c), Aryan Dutt, Bas de Leede, Kyle Klein, Logan van Beek, Max O’Dowd, Michael Levitt, Paul van Meekeren, Ryan Klein, Saqib Zulfiqar, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Teja Nidamanuru, ⁠⁠Tim Pringle, Vikram Singh, Viv Kingma, Wesley Barresi. Travelling reserve: Ryan Klein

Group D Prediction: Top Two Teams

Each team in Group D has its unique strengths. South Africa’s power-packed lineup, Sri Lanka’s balanced squad, Bangladesh’s mix of experience and youth, the Netherlands’ history of surprises, and Nepal’s youthful energy all contribute to a highly competitive group.

South Africa and Sri Lanka are strong contenders to advance from Group D. South Africa and Sri Lanka: The sheer star power makes South Africa a favourite for the top spot. Sri Lanka is likely to edge past Bangladesh for second place, given its better head-to-head record in the recent encounters. Bangladesh, with its blend of youth and experience, could also make a significant impact if it plays to its potential. The Netherlands and Nepal, though less favoured, have the potential to cause upsets.