Kathmandu, 12 February (H.S.): Nepal faces Italy in its second match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on Thursday, seeking its first victory in the tournament underway across India and Sri Lanka.The Group C clash unfolds at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, commencing at 3:15 p.m. local time.

Nepal, appearing for the third time in the event, enters buoyed yet determined after a narrow four-run defeat to England in its opener, falling short at 180 for six while chasing 185 in 20 overs.

Italy marks its T20 World Cup debut, having qualified by defeating Scotland in the Europe regional qualifier despite ranking 26th in ICC T20I standings to Nepal's 16th. Nepal views Italy as the group's weakest link and anticipates a straightforward win for two points, though a loss would constitute a major setback.

Italy boasts players linked to Test nations like Australia, South Africa, England, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan; however, captain Wayne Madsen, a South African, sits out Thursday's match due to injury, with Harry Manenti likely stepping in.

Nepal contests all four group games at Wankhede, against England (former champions), two-time champions West Indies, Scotland, and Italy; the latter secured its spot after Bangladesh declined to host.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar