Nepal vs Italy Prediction: Who Will Win NEP vs ITLY 17th T20 Match on 12th February 2026?
The Nepal vs Italy prediction for the 17th T20 World Cup 2026 match heavily leans toward Nepal as they prepare to face Italy at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on 12th February 2026. Nepal come into this contest with strong momentum despite a narrow four-run defeat against England, where they nearly pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Their batting lineup showed resilience and composure while chasing 185, proving they can compete against higher-ranked opposition. Italy, on the other hand, endured a difficult World Cup debut, losing by 73 runs to Scotland after failing to chase 208.
Nepal’s top order, led by Kushal Bhurtel and Rohit Paudel, provided a solid platform in their previous match, while Dipendra Singh Airee demonstrated his all-round brilliance once again. Italy possess potential in their middle order, particularly through Ben Manenti and Harry Manenti, but consistency remains an issue. The Wankhede surface favors chasing teams—eight of the last ten T20 matches here were won by the side batting second—making the toss crucial.
Nepal’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Sandeep Lamichhane and supported by Karan KC and Sompal Kami, gives them a balanced combination of pace and spin. Italy must improve both batting discipline and death-over execution to challenge Nepal effectively. Based on current form, squad depth, and experience, Nepal are favorites to secure two important points in this Group C clash.
- Nepal’s Strong Performance Against England:
Nepal almost stunned England in their opening game, falling short by just four runs while chasing 185. Their batting showed depth and fight, especially through Dipendra Singh Airee and Rohit Paudel. - Italy’s Struggles in World Cup Debut:
Italy were bowled out for 134 while chasing 208 against Scotland. While the Manenti brothers impressed in the middle order, the top and lower order lacked stability. - Wankhede Conditions Favor Chasing Teams:
Eight of the last ten T20 matches at Wankhede have been won by the chasing side. Teams scoring 170+ are usually competitive, but dew often assists second innings batters. - Key Matchups to Watch:
Sandeep Lamichhane vs Ben Manenti could be decisive in middle overs. Kushal Bhurtel’s powerplay aggression will test Italy’s new-ball attack.
Match Details
| Match | NEP vs ITLY, 17th T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 12th February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 PM |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
| Broadcast | Star Sports Network, JioHotstar |
Team Previews
Nepal Preview
Nepal impressed the cricketing world with their near-upset against England. Chasing 185, they displayed fearless intent and tactical discipline. Kushal Bhurtel gave them a brisk start with 29 off 17 balls, showcasing his attacking prowess. Captain Rohit Paudel anchored the innings with 39, while Dipendra Singh Airee delivered a match-defining 44 off 29 balls.
Airee remains Nepal’s most valuable player, boasting over 2000 T20I runs and 60 wickets. His ability to shift momentum makes him crucial in tight matches. Lokesh Bam added late fireworks, scoring at an extraordinary strike rate, indicating Nepal’s depth in finishing roles.
Bowling-wise, Sandeep Lamichhane continues to be Nepal’s trump card. With over 130 T20I wickets, he thrives in spin-friendly conditions. Karan KC and Sompal Kami provide seam support, while Nandan Yadav showed promise against England.
Nepal’s biggest strength lies in balance—capable batters at the top, all-round strength in the middle, and wicket-taking bowlers across phases. If they improve death-over execution, they could dominate Italy convincingly.
Italy Preview
Italy experienced a harsh introduction to World Cup cricket with a heavy defeat. While JJ Smuts and the Manenti brothers showed fighting spirit, the overall batting lacked depth.
Ben Manenti’s 52 off 31 demonstrated Italy’s potential against quality attacks. However, the top order’s inability to convert starts remains concerning. Captain Wayne Madsen’s experience will be crucial in stabilizing innings.
Italy’s bowling unit has talent. Crishan Kalugamage has taken 11 wickets in the past year, while Grant Stewart impressed pre-tournament. However, containing Nepal’s aggressive top order will require precision in line and length.
Italy must avoid early collapses and build partnerships. Without a collective batting effort, Nepal’s disciplined bowling could dominate proceedings.
Team Squad – Nepal vs Italy
Nepal Squad
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 Squad
Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti, Ben Manenti, Grant Stewart, Gian-Piero Meade (wk), Crishan Kalugamage, Thomas Draca, Ali Hasan, Wayne Madsen (c), Jaspreet Singh, Marcus Campopiano, Syed Naqvi, Zain Ali
Probable Playing XI
Nepal Probable XI
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Aasif Sheikh (wk)
- Rohit Paudel (c)
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Aarif Sheikh
- Lokesh Bam
- Karan KC
- Sompal Kami
- Nandan Yadav
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Sher Malla
Italy Probable XI
- Justin Mosca
- Anthony Mosca
- JJ Smuts
- Harry Manenti
- Ben Manenti
- Wayne Madsen (c)
- Grant Stewart
- Gian-Piero Meade (wk)
- Crishan Kalugamage
- Thomas Draca
- Ali Hasan
Nepal vs Italy Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| WK | Aasif Sheikh | Nepal |
| BAT | Kushal Bhurtel | Nepal |
| BAT | Rohit Paudel | Nepal |
| BAT | Ben Manenti | Italy |
| BAT | Harry Manenti | Italy |
| AR | Dipendra Singh Airee | Nepal |
| AR | Karan KC | Nepal |
| AR | Grant Stewart | Italy |
| BOWL | Sandeep Lamichhane | Nepal |
| BOWL | Sompal Kami | Nepal |
| BOWL | Crishan Kalugamage | Italy |
This fantasy XI is built around Nepal’s stronger core while incorporating Italy’s key performers. Aasif Sheikh is selected as wicketkeeper due to his reliability at the top and potential for both batting and keeping points. Kushal Bhurtel and Rohit Paudel provide stability and powerplay scoring. From Italy, Ben Manenti and Harry Manenti offer middle-order solidity and boundary-hitting ability.
Dipendra Singh Airee is the most valuable fantasy asset because of his all-round capabilities—he contributes in both departments consistently. Karan KC adds seam bowling strength and late-order hitting. Grant Stewart is included for his wicket-taking potential and ability to chip in with runs.
Sandeep Lamichhane is a must-pick given his wicket-taking consistency in T20Is. Sompal Kami and Crishan Kalugamage round out the bowling attack, offering control and breakthroughs in middle and death overs.
Captain Options:
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Sandeep Lamichhane
Vice-Captain Options:
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Ben Manenti
Players to Avoid:
- Justin Mosca (inconsistent recent returns)
- Sher Malla (limited fantasy impact expected)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match – Nepal
Nepal are clear favourites due to recent momentum, squad depth, and stronger bowling options. Their near-upset against England showed maturity and fighting spirit. Nepal’s spin attack led by Sandeep Lamichhane is well-suited to Indian conditions, while their middle-order strength through Dipendra Singh Airee gives them flexibility. Italy are still adjusting to the high-pressure World Cup stage and struggled in their opening match. Unless Italy produce a disciplined batting display and early wickets, Nepal are expected to control the match across phases.
Nepal T20 History
| Matches | Wins | Losses | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 113 | 66 | 44 | 3 | 0 |
Nepal have developed into one of the strongest associate nations with consistent ICC appearances.
Italy T20 History
| Matches | Wins | Losses | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | 25 | 14 | 1 | 0 |
Italy are a growing European cricket nation with improving international performances.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | Nepal Wins | Italy Wins | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
This will be the first-ever T20I encounter between Nepal and Italy.
Pitch Report
The surface at Wankhede Stadium is known for its true bounce and short boundaries, favoring aggressive batting. Pacers can get swing early on, especially in afternoon conditions, but once batters settle, stroke-making becomes easier. Spinners often play a supporting role rather than dominating. Teams batting first aim for 165–175 to feel secure. Dew later in the evening can assist chasing teams, making toss decisions crucial.
Weather Report
| Condition | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 28–30°C |
| Rain Chance | Low |
| Humidity | Moderate |
Clear skies expected with minimal interruption risk.
Broadcast Details
The Nepal vs Italy 17th T20 match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network. Fans can also stream the game through JioHotstar on mobile devices, tablets, and smart TVs with live commentary and analysis.
Toss Prediction
Given Wankhede’s chasing trend—eight of the last ten T20 matches won by the team batting second—the toss-winning captain is likely to bowl first. Italy are slightly tipped to win the toss, but Nepal’s balanced lineup allows flexibility in either scenario.
Probable Top Batsman & Bowler
For Nepal, Kushal Bhurtel is the most probable top scorer due to his attacking powerplay approach. Rohit Paudel could anchor the innings if early wickets fall. On the bowling front, Sandeep Lamichhane remains Nepal’s key wicket-taking threat.
For Italy, Ben Manenti is the strongest candidate for top scorer after his solid middle-order performance in the previous game. Crishan Kalugamage is expected to be Italy’s leading bowler, especially during middle overs.
Match Prediction
Nepal are predicted to win comfortably based on superior balance, recent form, and bowling strength. Italy have potential but must produce a near-perfect performance to challenge Nepal.
Winner: Nepal Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
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