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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Zimbabwe’s Brad Evans cleans up Travis Head and drops a Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuu’ celebration against struggling Australia
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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Zimbabwe’s Brad Evans cleans up Travis Head and drops a Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuu’ celebration against struggling Australia



In a sensational turn of events at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 13, 2026, Zimbabwe have pushed the 2021 champions to the brink of a historic collapse in T20 World Cup 2026. The Colombo crowd witnessed a masterclass in aggressive associate cricket as the “Chevrons” dismantled the Australian top order under the floodlights. With captain Mitchell Marsh already sidelined due to a bizarre medical condition, the stand-in leadership of Travis Head was expected to provide stability. However, the Zimbabwean pace attack had other plans, leaving the Australian dugout in stunned silence.

Brad Evans rattles Travis Head and unleashes the iconic Cristiano Ronaldo’s SIUUU celebration

The defining moment of Australia’s nightmare powerplay arrived in the 5th over when Brad Evans delivered a knockout punch to the Australian captain. Operating on a nagging good-length just outside the off-stump, Evans induced a hesitant push from Travis Head, who played away from his body without significant foot movement. The ball took a thick inside edge, deflected off the batter’s pads, and rolled with agonizing slow-motion precision back onto the stumps to dislodge the bails.

As Head stood frozen in disbelief at his dismissal for 17 (15 balls), Evans sprinted toward the covers to unveil the Cristiano Ronaldo “SIUUU” celebration, a high-octane jump and mid-air pirouette that sent the Zimbabwean supporters into a frenzy. This wicket was the culmination of a relentless opening spell where Evans and Blessing Muzarabani utilized the ‘stop-start’ nature of the Colombo surface to perfection. The celebration wasn’t just a personal flair; it symbolized the rising confidence of a Zimbabwe side that had already reduced Australia to a perilous 29/4 within the first 30 balls of the chase.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Here’s why Brendan Taylor, Cooper Connolly and Richard Ngarava are not playing today’s AUS vs ZIM match

T20 World Cup 2026: Zimbabwe posts 169/2 amidst mounting Australian injury woes

Earlier in the day, Zimbabwe set a formidable target of 170, anchored by a resilient maiden World Cup fifty from young opener Brian Bennett. The 22-year-old played the innings of his life, remaining unbeaten on 64 off 56 balls with seven boundaries, skillfully navigating the threat of Adam Zampa. He was ably supported by Tadiwanashe Marumani (35) and Ryan Burl (35), before skipper Sikandar Raza provided the finishing touch with a brisk 25 off 13 balls*, including a massive six off the final delivery.

Australia’s bowling effort was hampered significantly when Marcus Stoinis was forced off the field in the 16th over after copping a nasty blow to his left thumb while fielding a powerful drive off his own bowling. The injury looks serious, adding to a casualty list that already includes regular captain Marsh (testicular bleeding). In the chase, the Australian collapse was rapid: Josh Inglis (8) fell to a pull shot, Cameron Green (0) nicked off to the keeper, and Tim David (0) mistimed a swivel-pull to short fine leg, all before Head’s bizarre dismissal. At the drinks break, Australia stands at a shaky 51/4, needing a ‘Maxwell Miracle’ to chase down the remaining 119 runs at a required rate nearly touching 10 per over.

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav holds back security to let fan in Virat Kohli jersey meet Hardik Pandya during IND vs NAM match





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Fans go wild as Hardik Pandya’s all-round heroics steer India to a commanding triumph over Namibia in T20 World Cup 2026
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Fans go wild as Hardik Pandya’s all-round heroics steer India to a commanding triumph over Namibia in T20 World Cup 2026



The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 witnesssed a masterclass in clinical T20 cricket as India dismantled Namibia by 93 runs in their Group A encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. On a night where the local fans were treated to a boundary fest, India’s “all-round” depth was on full display. Bolstered by a blistering start from Ishan Kishan and a finishing flourish from Hardik Pandya, the Men in Blue posted a formidable 209/9, before a disciplined bowling attack led by Varun Chakaravarthy folded the Namibian resistance for just 116.

Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya’s power-hitting surge takes India to a huge total

Winning the toss was only half the battle; the real fireworks began when Kishan took guard. The dynamic opener was in a punishing mood, racing to a half-century in just 20 balls. Alongside Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma, Kishan dismantled the Namibian pace attack, ensuring India crossed the 100-run mark in less than seven overs. Despite a middle-order wobble caused by Gerhard Erasmus’s clever four-wicket haul (4/20), the momentum never truly shifted.

The arrival of Pandya shifted the gears back into overdrive. Pandya played the role of the quintessential finisher, smashing 52 off 28 balls, laced with four towering sixes. His partnership with Shivam Dube (23) added a quick-fire 81 runs for the fifth wicket, propelling India past the 200-run milestone. While the tail struggled to navigate the final over, the damage was already done. India’s total of 209 proved to be a mountain too high for the associate nation to climb under the Delhi lights.

Varun Chakaravarthy’s web and Pandya’s golden touch stifle Namibia during chase

The second half of the match belonged to the Indian bowlers, who never allowed the Namibian batters to settle into a rhythm. While Louren Steenkamp (29) and Jan Frylinck (22) provided a brief spark in the Powerplay, the introduction of Chakaravarthy changed the complexion of the game. Chakaravarthy, the “mystery spinner,” was virtually unplayable, returning staggering figures of 3/7 in his two-over spell. He bamboozled the top order, removing Steenkamp and JJ Smit in quick succession to leave the chase in tatters.

If the spinners tightened the noose, Pandya provided the finishing blows. After his heroics with the bat, Pandya proved why he is the world’s premier all-rounder by picking up 2/21. He utilized his variations perfectly on the Delhi surface, removing Bernard Scholtz and Ben Shikongo in a single over to demoralize the tail. Supported by Axar Patel’s two wickets and Jasprit Bumrah’s customary economical spell (1/20), India bundled out Namibia for 116 in 18.2 overs.

The 93-run victory not only boosts India’s Net Run Rate significantly but also solidifies their position as the team to beat in Group A. For his 52 runs and two crucial wickets, Pandya was rightfully named Player of the Match, signalling that he is in peak form for the tournament.

Also WATCH: Zane Green’s quick hands send Suryakumar Yadav packing in IND vs NAM showdown

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Sanju Samson faces social media backlash after brief cameo against Namibia in T20 World Cup 2026





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Sanju Samson faces social media backlash after brief cameo against Namibia in T20 World Cup 2026
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Sanju Samson faces social media backlash after brief cameo against Namibia in T20 World Cup 2026



India‘s clash against Namibia at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 was expected to be a routine outing, but for Sanju Samson, it turned into another chapter of scrutiny and debate. The stylish wicketkeeper-batter, drafted into the playing XI in place of the unwell Abhishek Sharma, had a golden opportunity to cement his place. Instead, his brief stay at the crease sparked a storm online, with fans once again questioning his consistency on the international stage.

A blazing start, but short-lived for Sanju Samson

Walking in with intent, Samson wasted no time in announcing himself. He cracked boundaries at will, racing to 22 runs off just eight deliveries. The timing was sweet, the strokeplay elegant — a reminder of the immense talent that has long excited Indian cricket followers.

However, just as momentum seemed to be building, Samson fell attempting another attacking shot. The dismissal halted India’s early surge and reopened a familiar debate: brilliance in flashes, but not for long enough.

In T20 cricket, cameos often hold value, especially at a rapid strike rate. But in Samson’s case, expectations have always been different. Fans and analysts alike believe he possesses the ability to dominate bowling attacks and bat deep into the innings. That belief, while a compliment to his talent, has also intensified the criticism whenever he fails to convert starts into substantial contributions.

Within minutes of his dismissal, social media platforms were flooded with reactions. Memes, sarcastic posts, and sharp critiques began trending. Some users questioned why Samson continues to get chances, while others compared him with players waiting on the bench.

A section of fans argued that a 22-run blitz in a World Cup game should not be dismissed entirely, especially if it boosts the scoring rate early on. However, the louder voices focused on the missed opportunity. With India aiming to build momentum in the tournament, supporters expected a more decisive performance against a comparatively inexperienced Namibian attack.

The trolling reflected a broader frustration among fans who have seen Samson produce similar quick bursts in the past without converting them into match-defining knocks.

Also READ: IND vs NAM, T20 World Cup 2026: Here’s why Abhishek Sharma and Mohammed Siraj are not playing today’s match

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Kris Srikkanth slams Nasser Hussain over BCCI’s control on ICC remark amid T20 World Cup 2026 controversy





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WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery yorker leaves Ishan Kishan in extreme pain
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WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery yorker leaves Ishan Kishan in extreme pain



India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan sparked concern within the camp after a video surfaced showing him limping during a training session ahead of India’s second match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 against Namibia.

Jasprit Bumrah’s deadly yorker floors Ishan Kishan in painful moment

The incident took place when pacer Jasprit Bumrah delivered a trademark pinpoint yorker that struck Kishan flush on the foot. The batter attempted to negotiate the delivery but was beaten by the precision and pace, immediately showing signs of discomfort.

The clip, which quickly gained traction on social media, showed concerned faces in the Indian setup as Kishan struggled momentarily before being attended to by the team physio.

Following the blow, Kishan received on-field treatment while Bumrah walked over to check on his teammate. Although the initial visuals appeared worrying, the mood lightened slightly as members of the support staff managed to share a brief smile while Kishan tried to shake off the pain.

Here’s the video:

At this stage, there has been no official confirmation of the severity of the knock. However, given India’s ongoing fitness concerns in the tournament, even minor setbacks are being closely monitored.

India battling fitness concerns early in campaign

India’s T20 World Cup 2026 journey has already been disrupted by injury and illness setbacks. Fast bowler Harshit Rana was ruled out of the tournament after injuring his knee during a warm-up match against South Africa.

In addition, opening batter Abhishek Sharma was hospitalised due to a stomach infection. Reports indicated he was battling a high fever during India’s opening fixture against the United States of America (USA), where he was dismissed for a first-ball duck.

Even Bumrah himself missed the USA encounter after feeling unwell. The pacer resumed bowling in the nets prior to the Namibia game, indicating his return to match readiness.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Dasun Shanaka equals Rohit Sharma’s record and breaks Mahela Jayawardene’s with an explosive knock vs Oman

Sanju Samson likely backup option at the top

Should either Ishan or Abhishek be unavailable for selection against Namibia, Sanju Samson is expected to step in as an opening option.

Samson’s versatility and experience in the T20 format provide India with a reliable contingency plan. However, team management will hope that Kishan’s injury scare proves minor and does not further complicate their combination early in the tournament.

India will be keen to stabilise their lineup after an inconsistent start. The upcoming clash against Namibia offers an opportunity to regain rhythm, provided the squad is close to full strength.

Also READ: Virat Kohli left out of Ajinkya Rahane’s all-time right-handed T20 XI; Rohit Sharma gets a spot





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Here’s the list of players of unsold in IPL 2026 but picked in PSL auction
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Here’s the list of players of unsold in IPL 2026 but picked in PSL auction



The historic first-ever Pakistan Super League (PSL) auction has officially concluded in Lahore on February 11, marking a seismic shift in the T20 franchise landscape. While the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi left several world-class stars out in the cold, the PSL franchises, bolstered by two new expansion teams, wasted no time in securing that elite talent. From marquee veterans to high-velocity pace bowlers, the ‘unsold’ list of the IPL has effectively become the ‘superstar’ list for the upcoming Pakistan Super League season.

List of players unsold in IPL 2026 but selected in the PSL Auction

The expansion of the PSL to eight teams (including the new Sialkot Stallionz and Hyderabad Kingsmen) created a massive vacuum for international quality, which was filled by players who surprisingly found no takers in the IPL. While the IPL franchises prioritized domestic Indian uncapped talent and specific role-players, the PSL teams leaned into proven international experience. The following table highlights the key players who went unsold in the IPL 2026 auction but were successfully picked up, often for massive sums, in the PSL 2026 auction and direct signing window:

Player IPL 2026 and PSL 2026 Status

Player IPL 2026 Status PSL 2026 Team Category / Signing Type
Steve Smith Unsold (2 Cr) Sialkot Stallionz Marquee (Direct Signing)
Daryl Mitchell Unsold (2 Cr) Team Rawalpindi Auction (PKR 8.05 Cr)
Devon Conway Unsold (2 Cr) Islamabad United Direct Signing
Michael Bracewell Unsold (2 Cr) Peshawar Zalmi Auction (PKR 4.20 Cr)
Spencer Johnson Unsold (1.5 Cr) Quetta Gladiators Direct Signing
Riley Meredith Unsold (1.5 Cr) Hyderabad Kingsmen Auction (PKR 4.20 Cr)
Ashton Turner Unsold Sialkot Stallionz Auction (PKR 4.20 Cr)
Richard Gleeson Unsold (75 Lakh) Islamabad United Auction (PKR 1.10 Cr)
Dasun Shanaka Unsold (75 Lakh) Lahore Qalandars Auction (PKR 75 Lakh)

Also READ: Multan Sultans’ PSL exit: New owner and record sale price unveiled after rebranding to Rawalpindi

‘New Era’ of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 

The PSL 2026 season has officially rewritten the history books. Not only did it successfully bridge the gap for international stars who missed out on the IPL, but it also transformed the league’s fundamental structure to compete on a global scale. The 2026 season marks the most significant evolution in the league’s decade-long history, headlined by the expansion from six to eight franchises.

The addition of the Sialkot Stallionz and Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen (along with the transition of the Multan Sultans into Team Rawalpindi) has injected fresh capital and strategic depth into the competition. For the first time, the league ditched its traditional draft system in favor of a live player auction, allowing teams to engage in high-stakes bidding wars.

This shift saw domestic records shattered, with Naseem Shah becoming the most expensive local player at PKR 8.65 crore, while the new franchises were given a “Direct Overseas Signing” wildcard to secure global icons like Steve Smith (Sialkot) and Marnus Labuschagne (Hyderabad) before the bidding even began. With more matches, new venues like Sialkot’s historic grounds and Hyderabad’s Niaz Stadium, and a salary cap that has nearly doubled to accommodate world-class talent, PSL 2026 has positioned itself as the definitive alternative to the IPL for the world’s elite cricketers.

*Note*: While 79 players went unsold in the IPL, 56 of them were Indian players (like Deepak Hooda, Prithvi Shaw and Mahipal Lomror). Because of BCCI regulations, Indian players do not participate in the PSL. This is why you only see the overseas players from your list making the move.

Also READ: Shubman Gill’s close friend Agni Chopra responds to PSL registration rumours



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T20 World Cup 2026: Is India getting an unfair advantage? Gerhard Erasmus questions ICC over no night training ahead of Delhi fixture
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T20 World Cup 2026: Is India getting an unfair advantage? Gerhard Erasmus questions ICC over no night training ahead of Delhi fixture



In a significant pre-match stir at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on February 11, 2026, Namibia‘s captain has voiced strong concerns over the T20 World Cup 2026 scheduling equity against India. As the ‘Eagles’ prepare to face the defending champions on their home turf, the dialogue has shifted from tactical matchups to the fairness of preparation facilities provided by the ICC. This tension comes at a critical juncture for Namibia, who are desperately seeking a win to keep their Super 8 ambitions alive following an opening-round loss.

Gerhard Erasmus questions ‘unfair’ training schedule in Delhi ahead of T20 World Cup 2026 game vs India

Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus has publicly questioned the ICC regarding the lack of night training sessions allotted to his team ahead of their high-profile clash against India. Speaking to reporters on the eve of the match, Erasmus revealed a stark disparity in the practice slots provided to the two teams at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. While India were granted two separate training sessions under the floodlights, Namibia were relegated to the 2 PM-5 PM afternoon slots, leaving them without any opportunity to acclimate to the night-time conditions they will face during the 7 PM kickoff.

“We haven’t been given a night training session before this game, I’m not sure why. I believe India has had two night sessions and I see outside that Canada will have a night training now. You can make of that what you want, but we’ll just rock up and do it the Namibian way, which is to fight.” Erasmus was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

This issue is particularly acute for Namibia due to their domestic infrastructure; Erasmus pointed out that they do not have international-standard floodlights back home, meaning most of his squad has limited experience playing under lights outside of franchise leagues like the ILT20 or the Nepal Premier League. The captain hinted that such a ‘lack of simulation’ puts associate nations at a disadvantage when facing top-tier teams who are intimately familiar with these conditions.

Also READ: Virat Kohli left out of Ajinkya Rahane’s all-time right-handed T20 XI; Rohit Sharma gets a spot

T20 World Cup 2026: India vs Namibia 

The Group A clash on February 12, 2026, sees a dominant Indian side looking to secure their second consecutive win and solidify their position at the top of the table. India enters the game following a hard-fought victory over the USA, where captain Suryakumar Yadav played a match-winning hand.

However, the Indian camp is currently dealing with its own set of challenges; opening batter Abhishek Sharma is a doubtful starter after being hospitalized with a stomach infection and viral fever. While he has been discharged, the team management is unlikely to risk him with the high-stakes Pakistan match looming on Sunday, potentially handing Sanju Samson a chance to open the innings.

On the other hand, Namibia are coming off a disappointing seven-wicket defeat to the Netherlands. To stand any chance against the world champions, they will rely heavily on the all-round capabilities of JJ Smit and the veteran leadership of Erasmus. The Delhi pitch, known for being a “belter” with short boundaries, traditionally favors the chasing side due to the dew factor, a variable that Namibia will now have to navigate without the benefit of a single night-time rehearsal. With Jasprit Bumrah expected to return to the lineup after recovering from a fever, Namibia’s batting order faces a trial by fire in front of a sold-out Delhi crowd.

Also READ: Irfan Pathan suggests a change in India’s bowling attack for Namibia clash at T20 World Cup 2026



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Virat Kohli left out of Ajinkya Rahane’s all-time right-handed T20 XI; Rohit Sharma gets a spot
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Virat Kohli left out of Ajinkya Rahane’s all-time right-handed T20 XI; Rohit Sharma gets a spot



Ajinkya Rahane has sparked a massive debate across the cricketing world by unveiling his all-time right-handed T20 XI. Speaking on a special segment for Cricbuzz on February 11, 2026, the veteran Indian batter meticulously constructed a lineup of elite right-handers but made the ‘stunning’ decision to exclude Virat Kohli.

This omission is particularly striking given Kohli’s status as the highest run-scorer in T20 World Cup history and his legendary performances in the 2014, 2016 and 2022 editions. Rahane’s selections seem to prioritize high-impact strike rates and specialized T20 roles over career aggregates. His lineup features a blend of modern-day power-hitters and iconic bowlers who dominated the IPL and international circuits. The list serves as a fascinating look into how one of India’s most technically sound batters views the ‘ideal’ structure of a T20 side.

Ajinkya Rahane favours explosive openers and middle-order ‘X-factors’ over Virat Kohli

In his discussion with Cricbuzz, Rahane opted for a terrifying opening combination of Rohit Sharma and Jos Buttler, choosing the two most recent T20 World Cup-winning captains to lead from the front. Rahane explained that Buttler’s ‘proven powerplay enforcement’ and Rohit’s unmatched ability to accelerate made them the perfect pair.

Interestingly, at number three, the spot traditionally occupied by Kohli, Rahane slotted in Suryakumar Yadav, citing his ability to win matches “beyond stats” and his status as the current T20I captain. The middle order is rounded out by the legendary AB de Villiers at four and MS Dhoni, whom Rahane named as the captain and wicketkeeper of his side. By choosing SKY and ABD over Kohli, Rahane appears to have prioritized 360-degree shot-making and raw strike rate, noting that de Villiers’ career strike rate of over 150 makes him indispensable in any all-time XI.

Also READ: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma face Grade B demotion as Shubman Gill enters top bracket of BCCI central contracts for 2025–26

Caribbean power and a lethal multi-nation bowling attack in Rahane’s XI

To provide the necessary balance, Rahane included the iconic West Indian duo of Andre Russell and Dwayne Bravo as his primary all-rounders. Russell’s ability to change a game with both bat and ball, combined with Bravo’s status as one of the greatest death-overs specialists in history, gives the team immense depth. The bowling department is a masterclass in variety, featuring the mystery of Rashid Khan alongside the veteran off-spin of Harbhajan Singh.

For the pace battery, Rahane reunited the legendary Mumbai Indians duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Lasith Malinga, who together boast nine IPL titles and two T20 World Cups. The final spot went to Yuzvendra Chahal, the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker, completing a four-man spin attack if you include Harbhajan and the part-time options. This selection underscores Rahane’s belief in specialized T20 skills, even if it meant leaving out one of his closest former teammates.

Ajinkya Rahane’s All-Time Right-Handed T20 XI

Position Player Key Role
Openers Rohit Sharma & Jos Buttler Aggressive Powerplay Starts
No. 3 Suryakumar Yadav 360-Degree Anchor/Aggressor
No. 4 AB de Villiers Middle-Order Finisher
No. 5 (C & WK) MS Dhoni Finisher & Captain
All-Rounders Andre Russell & Dwayne Bravo Death-Over Specialists
Spinners Rashid Khan, Harbhajan Singh & Yuzvendra Chahal Middle-Over Wickets
Pacers Jasprit Bumrah & Lasith Malinga Elite Death Bowling

Also READ: Are Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir in conflict mode? BCCI secretary gives direct clarification



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NEP vs ITA, T20 World Cup 2026, Match Prediction: Who will win today’s game between Nepal and Italy?
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NEP vs ITA, T20 World Cup 2026, Match Prediction: Who will win today’s game between Nepal and Italy?



The spotlight shifts to Mumbai as Nepal takes on World Cup debutants Italy in a crucial Group C encounter. Nepal enters this match with a point to prove; they nearly pulled off the tournament’s biggest upset in their opener, falling just 4 runs short of chasing 185 against England. Led by Rohit Paudel, the “Rhinos” are riding a wave of momentum and global admiration, having firmly established themselves as the “giant killers” of the associate world.

For Italy, this match is about finding their feet on the big stage. Following a tough 73-run loss to Scotland, the Azzurri need a win to keep their hopes alive. While they possess experienced campaigners like JJ Smuts and the Manenti brothers, they face a Nepal side that is deeply familiar with Indian conditions and backed by a massive, passionate fanbase in Mumbai.

NEP vs ITA, T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details

  • Date and Time: February 12; 3:00 pm IST / 9:30 am GMT
  • Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

NEP vs ITA, Head-to-Head Record

Nepal and Italy have not yet faced each other in T20Is.

Wankhede Stadium Pitch Report

The red soil track offers true bounce and pace, allowing batters to play through the line with confidence. While the ball comes onto the bat nicely, recent stats show that spinners have been more successful (31 wickets vs. 26 for pacers in the last 5 games). As batters target the short boundaries, variations in pace and flight often lead to mistimed shots. Since this is a 3:00 PM start, the dew factor—which usually plagues evening games in Mumbai—will be largely irrelevant for the first innings. However, the track may become even better for batting as the sun sets during the second innings. Expect a high-scoring affair; the average first-innings total here is hovering around 180–190.

Also READ: Fans react as England survive massive Nepal scare in dramatic last-over T20 World Cup 2026 win

Squads:

Nepal: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam, Gulsan Jha, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, Sher Malla, Basir Ahamad, Sundeep Jora, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sompal Kami

Italy: Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti, Ben Manenti, Grant Stewart, Gian Meade (wk), Crishan Kalugamage, Thomas Draca, Ali Hasan, Wayne Madsen (c), Jaspreet Singh, Marcus Campopiano, Syed Naqvi, Zain Ali

NEP vs ITA, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

  • Nepal wins the toss and bowl first
  • Italy powerplay score: 35-45
  • Italy total score: 130-140

Case 2:

  • Italy wins the toss and bowl first
  • Nepal powerplay score: 40-50
  • Nepal total score: 160-170

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Nepal pacer Nandan Yadav left speechless by Dale Steyn’s heartwarming message after England thriller



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Fans erupt as Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa dismantle Ireland, powering Australia to a crushing win at the T20 World Cup 2026
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Fans erupt as Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa dismantle Ireland, powering Australia to a crushing win at the T20 World Cup 2026



The R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo turned into a sea of green and gold on Wednesday, as Australia delivered a masterclass in T20 cricket. In the 14th match of Group B at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Australia dismantled a resilient but outmatched Ireland side, securing a massive 67-run victory. While the Irish fans arrived with hopes of a historic upset, they were met with a clinical Australian outfit that excelled in every department, effectively signalling their intent for the knockout stages.

Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis anchor Australia to a powerful total against Ireland

Choosing to bat first, Australia’s innings began with a shock as captain Travis Head was run out for just 7 by a sharp piece of fielding from Ben Calitz. However, the early wicket failed to dampen the Australian aggression. Josh Inglis took charge immediately, playing a whirlwind knock of 37 off just 17 balls, ensuring the Powerplay remained productive. Despite the loss of Cameron Green (21) and Glenn Maxwell (9), Australia’s depth proved to be the difference-maker.

The backbone of the innings was formed by a steady Matt Renshaw, who grinded out 37 runs, and the explosive Marcus Stoinis. Stoinis was the primary aggressor in the latter half of the innings, smashing 45 off 29 deliveries, including four boundaries and two towering sixes. His ability to find the gaps during the middle overs allowed Australia to reach 150 by the 18th over. Late cameos from Cooper Connolly and Xavier Bartlett pushed the total to a formidable 182/6. Ireland’s Mark Adair was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/44, but the Irish attack struggled to contain the sheer variety of the Australian stroke play.

Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa’s bowling masterclass silences Ireland 

Ireland’s chase of 183 got off to a disastrous start. Captain Paul Stirling was forced to retire hurt just one ball into the innings, leaving the middle order exposed. Nathan Ellis, thriving in the humid Colombo conditions, produced a spell for the ages. He struck early and often, removing Ross Adair and Curtis Campher in quick succession. Ellis’s ability to extract pace and bounce from the surface left the Irish top order reeling at 27/4 within the first five overs.

As the match progressed, Adam Zampa turned the screws. The premier leg-spinner was virtually unplayable, bamboozling the Irish batsmen with his subtle variations. Zampa tore through the middle and lower order, finishing with incredible figures of 4/23. He claimed the crucial wicket of Lorcan Tucker (24), who was the only Irish batsman to offer significant resistance. George Dockrell attempted a late charge with a spirited 41, but it was too little, too late.

Ellis returned to polish off the tail, finishing with a stellar 4/24. Ireland was eventually bundled out for 115 in 16.5 overs, falling 67 runs short. The victory not only cements Australia’s dominance in Group B but also provides a massive boost to their Net Run Rate, making them the team to beat as the tournament progresses.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Blow for Ireland as Paul Stirling retires hurt during crucial clash against Australia

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: Spinner Matthew Humphreys’ 110 kmph thunderbolt destroys Matt Renshaw’s middle stump | T20 World Cup 2026





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T20 World Cup 2026: Not Aiden Markram! Ryan Rickelton reveals who suggested Keshav Maharaj for Super Over against Afghanistan
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T20 World Cup 2026: Not Aiden Markram! Ryan Rickelton reveals who suggested Keshav Maharaj for Super Over against Afghanistan



In an incredible turn of events at the Narendra Modi Stadium in T20 World Cup 2026, South Africa‘s victory over Afghanistan in a double Super Over thriller on February 11, 2026, was decided by a bold coaching masterstroke. The match reached a fever pitch after both teams finished their 20 overs tied at 187, followed by a deadlocked first Super Over where both sides scored 17 runs.

While fans expected a specialist pace spearhead like Kagiso Rabada to handle the final six balls of the second tie-breaker, the ball was unexpectedly handed to a spinner. This high-stakes gamble transformed a tense encounter into one of the most dramatic finishes in T20 World Cup history. The decision ultimately secured South Africa’s second win of the tournament, though it came down to a heart-stopping final delivery.

Not Aiden Markram! Ryan Rickelton clarifies who made the call for Keshav Maharaj in the Super Over

Following the match, South African batter Ryan Rickelton revealed that the decision to bowl a spinner in the second Super Over did not come from captain Aiden Markram, but from head coach Shukri Conrad. Rickelton admitted that the players were initially surprised by the move, especially after Lungi Ngidi had conceded 17 in the first tie-breaker and Rabada had struggled with discipline in the final over of regulation.

Rickelton, quoted as saying by iol.co.za stated: “Why Keshav was selected? I actually was unsure. I thought KG or Marco was going to go, but it came from Shukri, saying he thinks Kesh should go. And yeah, credit to him where credit is due.” The strategy relied on utilizing the ground’s long boundaries and having Maharaj bowl slow and wide to force the Afghan batters to hit against the spin. Despite the risk, the coach’s ‘blunt and honest’ approach to tactical changes proved to be the difference-maker.

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Maharaj survives Rahmanullah Gurbaz onslaught to seal thrilling T20 World Cup 2026 victory

The execution of Conrad’s plan fell to Maharaj, who was tasked with defending a target of 23 in the second Super Over. Maharaj started brilliantly with a dot ball and the wicket of Mohammad Nabi, leaving Afghanistan needing 24 runs off the final four deliveries. However, the game nearly slipped away as Rahmanullah Gurbaz launched a stunning counter-attack, smashing three consecutive sixes to bring the requirement down to just six runs off the final ball. Maharaj’s nerves were further tested when he bowled a wide, reducing the equation to five runs needed for an Afghan win.

Rickelton explained the logic behind the final delivery: “We tried to change it up, I think, balls slow and wide and try to get them to hit over extra cover for six to the big boundary… fortunately for the Proteas, Gurbaz held out to David Miller at cover.” By inducing a desperate slice from Gurbaz on the final ball, Maharaj vindicated Conrad’s gamble and ended what many are calling the greatest T20 World Cup match ever played.

Also READ: Fans go wild as South Africa edge Afghanistan in epic double Super Over thriller at T20 World Cup 2026



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