Mumbai, Feb 14 (UNI) Sparks are set to fly at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday as undefeated West Indies take on Nepal in a high-stakes Group C clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The game starts at 11 a.m. IST.
The Caribbean side has been on fire, winning both opening games, including a stunning 30-run victory over England, one of the tournament favourites. Sherfane Rutherford has been unstoppable, blasting 76 off just 41 balls, while Shimron Hetmyer delivered a match-winning 64 in the opener against Scotland.
West Indies’ bowlers have matched the batting fireworks. Romario Shepherd took 5/20 against Scotland, and Gudakesh Motie grabbed a crucial three-wicket haul versus England. Though captain Shai Hope and opener Brandon King have struggled at the top, the middle order and bowling attack have carried the team to perfection.
Nepal, meanwhile, is still searching for its first point. The Rhinos came agonizingly close against England, losing by just 4 runs, but were crushed by debutants Italy in a 10-wicket thrashing, bowled out for 123. Key players Rohit Paudel and Aasif Sheikh could shine again, while leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane will be Nepal’s hope on a spin-friendly Wankhede track that has yielded 24 wickets to spinners in four games.
The pitch has surprised everyone this World Cup, offering extra turn on a surface usually known for high-scoring T20s. With clear skies, temperatures around 29–31°C, and winds at 19 kmph, the stage is set for a tactical showdown.
In head-to-head clashes, the West Indies have dominated, including a 10-wicket win over Nepal in September 2025, making them strong favourites. But Nepal will aim for a blockbuster upset, and with the Wankhede spinners ready to strike, anything can happen.
The captain winning the toss may opt to bowl first.
One thing is certain: all eyes will be on Rutherford and Lamichhane as West Indies look to extend their unbeaten run while Nepal hunts for a T20 shocker.
