T20 World Cup 2026 Preparations Begin with Crucial Clash in Scotland
Nepal’s road to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 officially begins today as they take on the Netherlands in Glasgow, Scotland. With just three months remaining before the all-important T20 World Cup Qualifier in Oman, this series serves as the perfect launchpad for Nepal to test their depth, refine strategies, and build momentum. While the result may not have significant ranking implications, it holds immense value in terms of preparation and team development.
Time for Nepal to Build a Strong T20 Squad for Qualifier
The focus for Nepal in this series is not just about winning, but about identifying the strongest squad for the qualifiers. With limited matches ahead of the crucial tournament in Oman, every outing counts. The team management will look to give opportunities to fringe players and finalize combinations that can handle pressure in high-stakes games.
In the absence of key players like Gulshan Jha and Sompal Kami, this series presents a golden opportunity for emerging talents such as Lokesh Bam, Kiran Thagunna, and Basir Ahmad to step up. There will be pressure on them to perform, as such chances at the international level don’t come often. A strong showing here could push them into serious contention for a spot in the final squad for the qualifiers.
A Historic Opportunity Awaits: West Indies Series Next
Before heading to Oman for the qualifiers, Nepal will play a landmark T20I series against two-time T20 World Cup champions West Indies. Set to be played at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the UAE from September 27 to 30, this series offers Nepal a golden opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage.
Not only will it boost the players’ confidence, but the playing conditions in Sharjah—similar to those in Oman—make it an ideal preparatory ground. A strong performance or even a win against the Caribbean giants could serve as a massive morale booster ahead of the qualifiers.
CAN’s Full Focus on Qualifiers
According to the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) Secretary in a recent interview, the board is fully committed to ensuring comprehensive preparation for the T20 World Cup qualifiers. Following the Scotland tour and the West Indies series, more matches are reportedly in the pipeline to ensure maximum readiness for the team.
Nepal vs Netherlands: A Rivalry Renewed
Nepal and the Netherlands share a growing T20 rivalry. In last year’s T20 World Cup in the USA, Nepal played their opening match against the Dutch in Dallas. Although Nepal fell short on the scoreboard, the passionate display by the Nepali fans—draped in a sea of blue and red—left a lasting impression on global audiences, commentators, and even opposing players.
Earlier in the same year, the two sides met in a Triangular Series final hosted in Nepal, where the Netherlands once again emerged victorious. With those memories still fresh, this new series offers a shot at redemption and a chance to settle the score.
Match Details
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Match: Nepal vs Netherlands, T20I Series in Scotland
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Date: June 16, 2025
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Time: 7:45 PM Nepali Time
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Venue: Glasgow, Scotland
