Nepal Hosts T20 World Cup Trophy Tour Ahead of 2026 Championship
T20 World Cup Trophy Visits Nepal
The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 trophy made a stop at the Bouddhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal, as part of its promotional tour leading up to the tournament. This event attracted hundreds of fans who gathered to capture moments with the trophy.
The trophy tour commenced last year from Adam's Bridge, where a two-seater paramotor took off, showcasing the trophy against the stunning backdrop of India's southern coastline. The launch, which took place on January 5 in Kathmandu, symbolically connected India and Sri Lanka through the culturally significant Ram Setu. Following its unveiling, the trophy also visited Pokhara, known as the city of Lakes, in the Kaski district.
The upcoming 10th edition of the T20 World Cup will feature 20 teams competing over 29 days at eight venues across India and Sri Lanka, scheduled from February 7 to March 8. The trophy is touring various Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Oman, Nepal, Bahrain, and Mongolia, allowing fans to engage with the trophy and participate in interactive experiences to heighten anticipation for the event.
In an innovative outreach effort, the trophy will also visit schools and colleges linked to players participating in the tournament, providing young fans with a unique opportunity to connect with the global cricket stage. Additionally, it will be displayed at major T20 leagues and selected bilateral series, enhancing the excitement leading up to the tournament.
Nepal Reveals Squad for T20 World Cup
As the trophy tour continues, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) announced the squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 on Tuesday. The 15-player team will be led by captain Rohit Paudel, with Dipendra Singh Airee serving as vice-captain.
The 15-Member Squad
The squad, under Paudel's leadership, combines seasoned players with emerging talents, aiming for an aggressive strategy in the World Cup against formidable opponents. The selected players are: Rohit Paudel (Captain), Dipendra Singh Airee (Vice-captain), Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Sundeep Jora, Aarif Sheikh, Bashir Ahmad, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Gulshan Jha, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sher Malla, and Lokesh Bam.
Squad Analysis: Strengths and Key Players
Nepal's bowling attack will be anchored by Sandeep Lamichhane, whose extensive experience in various leagues makes him a significant wicket-taking option during the middle overs. The addition of left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi provides diversity, while Dipendra and Basir Ahmad contribute further spin options.
The squad's all-round capabilities are a notable strength, with players like Dipendra, Gulshan Jha, Aarif Sheikh, and Sompal Kami offering versatility with both bat and ball.
Kushal Bhurtel's aggressive batting style will be essential for quick starts, while Aasif Sheikh ensures stability behind the stumps, and Lokesh Bam adds strength and shot-making skills in the middle order.
Sundeep Jora and Nandan Yadav enhance the batting lineup, providing depth beyond the top six.
The pace attack will be led by Sompal Kami and Karan KC, both of whom bring valuable experience and skill with the new ball, complemented by Nandan Yadav and Sher Malla, who add pace and variety.
In their previous T20 World Cup appearance in 2024, Nepal faced challenges, exiting the tournament without a win in the group stage.