"Failed to create a sensation at the level of the Nepalese Himalayas."

Nepal came agonisingly close to delivering one of the most sensational upsets in world cricket. After nearly toppling South Africa in the 2024 World Cup by just a single run, the Himalayan nation was on the brink again—this time against two-time T20 World Cup champions, England—on February 8 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. One more six on the final delivery would have sent shockwaves across the cricketing world.

Chasing a target of 185, Nepal faced the daunting task of scoring ten runs off the last over. For a side ranked 16th in T20 Internationals against the world No. 3, the challenge was immense. Yet, the underdogs remained within striking distance throughout, putting England under pressure in a thrilling contest.

Earlier in the innings, Nepal unleashed a flurry of sixes against England’s pace ace Jofra Archer. The 27-year-old, regarded as one of the fastest bowlers globally, was hammered for 22 runs in a single over—the joint-worst T20I over of his career. Luke Wood then conceded 14 more in the following over, with Nepal’s batsmen swinging freely and confidently.

However, the final over proved decisive. Sam Curran executed his yorkers with precision, and Lokesh Bham, who had displayed fearless hitting earlier, could not clear the boundary on the final delivery. England emerged victorious by a narrow four-run margin, escaping what could have been a historic defeat.

Reflecting on the performance, Nepal’s bowler Nandan Yadav said:
"There is a mix of pride and regret. Competing against a team like England and coming so close to winning fills us with pride, but naturally there is some regret as well."

England’s preparation, led by Harry Brook and Brendon McCullum, paid off. Former captain Jos Buttler actively guided strategies during key moments, ensuring England maintained composure in what could have been a banana peel fixture.

Player of the Match Will Jacks described the tension:
"It’s a sense of relief and happiness. We came simply to win, and that’s what we did. But Nepal challenged us all the way."

Nepal’s performance highlights their rapid rise in international cricket. Currently an Associate Member of the ICC, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) aims to achieve Full Membership by 2030. CAN has already launched a three-day domestic tournament, seeking First-Class status to pave the way toward Test cricket.

Nepal’s key performers in the match included skipper Dipendra Singh Airee (44), Rohit Paudel (39), Lokesh Bham (39), and Kushal Bhurtel (29). Their efforts, backed by a vociferous 17,000-strong crowd, made Nepal’s challenge nearly insurmountable for England. Fans, including some English supporters, cheered the underdogs throughout, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.

With three more group games remaining—against Italy (February 12), West Indies (February 15), and Scotland (February 17)—Nepal remains in contention for a Super 8 berth, having discovered a new home advantage at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.

Match Snapshot: Nepal vs England, T20 World Cup 2026

Nepal’s near-miss serves as a powerful reminder that Associate nations are no longer mere participants—they are becoming genuine contenders on cricket’s global stage.