Nepal vs Italy, 17th Match, Group C

The upcoming T20 encounter between Nepal and Italy at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai promises an intriguing contest in Group C of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Nepal has been steadily improving their international T20 game, boasting a mix of promising young talent and experienced campaigners. Their recent form shows resilience in tight situations, highlighted by their impressive performances in the Asia qualifiers and bilateral series. Key players like captain Aasif Sheikh and leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane have been instrumental in shaping their fortunes. On the flip side, Italy, while considered emerging in cricketing terms, have surprised many teams in this tournament with disciplined bowling and explosive batting from players like Kamal Singh and Marcus Campopiano. Italy’s strategy has largely revolved around pace bowling and aggressive top-order batting to set or chase challenging targets. Head-to-head, these teams have limited encounters in T20 history, with Nepal having a slight edge owing to their more frequent international fixtures and exposure. This match is likely to see Nepal aiming to leverage their experience and stronger spin bowling attack on the Wankhede surface, while Italy could capitalize on their pace battery and lower-order hitting. The toss might influence the game’s course, as dew in the evening could assist chasing teams. Overall, the balance tilts slightly in Nepal’s favor due to familiarity with subcontinental conditions and the presence of match-winners like Lamichhane. However, Italy’s fighting spirit and unpredictability keep them well in contention.

AI suggested match winner

Nepal: 57%, Italy: 43%

Considering the Wankhede Stadium’s typical pitch conditions—moderate pace, some turn for spinners later, and a ground size favoring big hitters—first innings scoring ranges between 150 to 170 runs are expected for both teams. If Nepal bats first, they are likely to post a total around 160-165 runs, banking on their powerful middle order and spin-friendly conditions. On the other hand, if Italy bats first, their aggressive top-order could take advantage of the powerplay to reach 150-160 runs. The pitch generally offers a balanced contest between bat and ball, so both sides would look to build innings patiently while targeting acceleration in the death overs. Dew factor could make bowling more challenging in the second innings, favoring the chasing side.

The Wankhede Stadium boasts a flat yet supportive pitch for batsmen early on, with a slight assistance to spinners as the game progresses. Historically, the average first innings total in T20s here is around 160 runs. Teams chasing have a success rate of about 54% at this venue, making it a favorable ground for batting second, especially under lights with dew in play. Weather forecast for match day predicts clear skies with a slight humidity level of 60%, which will aid the grip for spinners during middle overs but may make bowling tough in the final overs. Best bowler on this ground between the two teams is Nepal's leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane, who has taken 8 wickets in 4 matches at an economy of under 7 runs. The best batsman is Nepal’s Aasif Sheikh, who averages 45 with a strike rate of 135 at Wankhede. The record highest individual score at this venue in matches involving these two teams is 74* by Aasif Sheikh.

Teams	Matches Played	Nepal Wins	Italy Wins
Nepal vs Italy T20	3	2	1

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches	Wins	Losses
Nepal	W, L, W, W, L	3	2
Italy	L, W, W, L, W	3	2

Aasif Sheikh: The Nepalese captain has had a solid run recently, anchoring innings with a strike rate over 130 and scoring consistently at the top order.

Sandeep Lamichhane: With his sharp leg-spin and variations, Lamichhane remains Nepal's most potent bowling weapon, having bowled economically and picked wickets in crucial moments in the last few games.

Paras Khadka: Veteran Nepalese all-rounder showing glimpses of his best, contributing vital runs down the order and useful medium pace spells.

Kamal Singh: Italy’s leading opener, Kamal has been aggressive and reliable, scoring quick runs at a strike rate close to 145, setting foundation for Italy’s innings.

Marcus Campopiano: Italy’s key middle-order batsman with the ability to rotate strike and hit boundaries, instrumental in their past victories.

Lorenzo Spada: Experienced medium pacer for Italy, recently effective in containing runs during powerplay overs and taking key wickets.