Nepal will look to register their first win of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 when they face Italy in a key Group C clash on Thursday, February 12 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Nepal come into this contest full of confidence despite a narrow four-run defeat to England in their opener. Rohit Paudel’s men pushed the defending champions right till the final over and proved they belong on the big stage.
Italy, meanwhile, are searching for answers after a heavy 73-run loss to Scotland. With captain Wayne Madsen struggling with a shoulder injury, the European side will need a strong response to keep their campaign alive.
This will also be the first-ever T20I meeting between Nepal and Italy, adding an extra layer of excitement to the afternoon clash in Mumbai.
When is Nepal vs Italy match?
The Nepal vs Italy match will be played on:
- Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM IST
- Toss Time: 2:30 PM IST
- Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Where to watch Nepal vs Italy live on TV in India?
Cricket fans can watch the live telecast of the match on the Star Sports Network.
- TV Broadcast: Star Sports Channels
Where to watch Nepal vs Italy live streaming in India?
The match will be streamed live on JioHotstar.
- Live Streaming Platform: JioHotstar App & Website
- Subscription Required
NEP vs ITA Pitch Report: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Wankhede is known as a batting paradise with short boundaries and a fast outfield.
Pacers may get some swing early due to the sea breeze, but once batters settle, run-scoring becomes much easier.
A first-innings score of around 170–180 is usually considered competitive here.
NEP vs ITA Weather Forecast: Mumbai
Weather conditions look ideal for cricket in Mumbai.
- Temperature: Around 30–33°C
- Rain Chances: None
- Conditions: Clear and sunny skies
Fans can expect a full uninterrupted 20-over match.
Nepal vs Italy Probable Playing XIs
Nepal Playing XI (Probable)
Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam, Gulshan Jha, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, Sher Malla
Italy Playing XI (Probable)
Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti, Ben Manenti, Grant Stewart, Gian Meade (wk), Marcus Campopiano, Crishan Kalugamage, Ali Hasan, Thomas Draca
Match Preview
Nepal may not have won their opener, but their fearless performance against England has made them one of the most talked-about associate sides in the tournament.
Dipendra Singh Airee remains their biggest match-winner with the bat, while Sandeep Lamichhane’s spin could be crucial in Mumbai conditions.
Italy, after conceding 207 against Scotland, will need a much tighter bowling effort and more stability in batting if they are to challenge Nepal.
With both teams desperate for points, expect an aggressive and high-scoring contest at the Wankhede.
Head-to-Head Record: Nepal vs Italy
This will be the first-ever T20I meeting between Nepal and Italy.
- Matches Played: 0
- Nepal Wins: 0
- Italy Wins: 0
Key Players to Watch
Dipendra Singh Airee (Nepal)
Nepal’s most dangerous batter and finisher, capable of changing the match in a few overs.
Sandeep Lamichhane (Nepal)
The leg-spinner will be key in controlling the middle overs against Italy’s batters.
JJ Smuts (Italy)
The experienced all-rounder could provide Italy with much-needed balance.
Ben Manenti (Italy)
One of Italy’s most consistent performers, especially in pressure situations.
Nepal vs Italy Match Details
- Match: Nepal vs Italy, Group C Match 17
- Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
- Date: February 12, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM IST
- Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
- TV: Star Sports Network
- Streaming: JioHotstar
FAQs
1. Where can I watch Nepal vs Italy live in India?
The match will be broadcast on Star Sports and streamed on JioHotstar.
2. What time does NEP vs ITA match start?
The match starts at 3:00 PM IST, with toss at 2:30 PM IST.
3. Is Nepal vs Italy live streaming free?
No, JioHotstar requires a subscription to watch live matches.
4. Where is Nepal vs Italy match being played?
The match is being played at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
5. Have Nepal and Italy played each other before?
No, this is their first-ever T20I encounter.
