Nepal Secures T20 World Cup Victory Against Scotland Amidst Fan Frenzy
Nepal's Final Match Triumph
In a thrilling conclusion to their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, Nepal achieved a seven-wicket victory over Scotland at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on February 17. Chasing a target of 171 runs, Nepal successfully completed the chase in 19.2 overs, with Dipendra Singh Airee shining with an impressive unbeaten 50 runs off just 23 balls, featuring 4 fours and 3 sixes, achieving a remarkable strike rate of 217.39. Key contributions also came from openers Kushal Bhurtel (43) and Aasif Sheikh (33), along with middle-order batsman Gulshan Jha (24*), who all played crucial roles in securing the win.
Earlier, the bowling unit led by Sompal Kami managed to restrict Scotland to 170 runs for 7 wickets, despite a solid 71-run performance from opener Michael Jones. Kami's bowling figures stood at 3 wickets for 25 runs, maintaining an economy rate of 6.20 over four overs. Nandan Yadav also made a significant impact, taking two wickets for 34 runs at an economy of 8.50.
Unwavering Support from Nepalese Fans
Although Nepal's journey in the T20 World Cup 2026 was not as successful as hoped, the unwavering enthusiasm of their cricket fans was a highlight. The supporters attended every group stage match, passionately cheering for the team led by Rohit Paudel, creating an electrifying atmosphere that resonated throughout the cricketing community. Despite not advancing to the Super 8 after three losses, the fans' loyalty remained steadfast.
During the match against Scotland, nearly 19,000 fans filled the Wankhede Stadium, transforming it into a vibrant display of red and blue, celebrating Nepal's long-awaited T20 World Cup victory after a 12-year gap.
Celebrating the Fans' Spirit
The fervor of Nepal's cricket fans has garnered significant attention, often overshadowing the team's on-field performance. When Nepal finally secured their first win of the tournament, the focus shifted to the jubilant fans whose excitement lit up the stadium, earning admiration from cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Social media platforms were flooded with praise for the Nepalese supporters, who traveled from various cities to Mumbai, showcasing their dedication and passion.
Fans expressed their joy on social media, calling them 'the best fans in the world' and highlighting their role in making the T20 World Cup 2026 an unforgettable event.
The Essence of Nepalese Cricket Fandom
The enthusiasm for cricket runs deep in Nepal, with the sport's popularity surging over the past decade. The recent T20 World Cup appearances have further fueled this passion, inspiring a new generation of fans and players alike. The Nepal Premier League, launched in 2024, has also played a crucial role in nurturing local talent and enhancing the connection between the team and its supporters.
Throughout the tournament, approximately 70,000 fans attended Nepal's matches at Wankhede Stadium, averaging around 17,500 spectators per game, solidifying their reputation as one of the most devoted fanbases in the cricketing world.