Sandeep Lamichhane Leads Nepal’s Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Sandeep Lamichhane will headline Nepal’s 15-member team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, taking charge of the spin attack. Lamichhane has proven invaluable in the T20I format, collecting 21 wickets in 10 matches with an impressive average of 10.23 in 2025.
Despite facing controversy due to a previous conviction related to serious allegations, Lamichhane’s name was cleared by an appeal court, allowing him to return to the national setup for the 2024 T20 World Cup.
At just 25 years old, he boasts 129 wickets from 68 T20I matches, maintaining a remarkable average of 12.14 and an economy rate just above six. His experience in global leagues makes him a crucial player for Nepal. He will be supported by Lalit Rajbanshi, a left-arm spinner, with additional spin options from Dipendra Airee and Basir Ahamad.
Nepal will enter the T20 World Cup under the captaincy of Rohit Paudel, a 23-year-old all-rounder known for his calmness and tactical acumen. After a tough campaign in 2024, where Nepal failed to win any of their four group matches, the team aims to adopt a fresh strategy while blending experienced players with emerging talent.
Dipendra Singh Airee, appointed vice-captain, is recognized for his important all-round capabilities in T20s. His contributions with both bat and ball are vital, and along with Paudel, he will provide strategic depth to the squad.
Nepal’s strength lies in their all-rounders, including Airee, Gulshan Jha, Aarif Sheikh, and Sompal Kami. This depth allows for versatility, giving the team various options in different match scenarios.
At the top of the batting order, Kushal Bhurtel aims to set an aggressive tone. Wicketkeeper-batter Aasif Sheikh brings consistency, providing reliability both behind the stumps and in batting.
The middle order is strengthened by Lokesh Bam, who adds stability and striking ability. Sundeep Jora and Nandan Yadav will enhance Nepal’s batting depth, helping the team bounce back from early setbacks.
In the pace department, Sompal Kami and Karan KC will lead the attack, known for their skills in new-ball movement and effectiveness in the death overs. Nandan Yadav and Sher Malla will diversify the pace options, ensuring Nepal can adapt to varied pitch conditions.
Nepal is grouped with England, Bangladesh, Italy, and the West Indies and will kick off their campaign against England on February 8.
Nepal Squad for T20 World Cup 2026:
- Rohit Paudel (c)
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Aasif Sheikh
- Sundeep Jora
- Aarif Sheikh
- Basir Ahamad
- Sompal Kami
- Karan KC
- Nandan Yadav
- Gulshan Jha
- Lalit Rajbanshi
- Sher Malla
- Lokesh Bam
