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PUBLISHED ON: 18 FEB 2026, 06:39 AM
By Sports Live Hub (SLH) Cricket Desk | February 18, 2026
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is proving to be a landmark edition, not just for the drama among full-member nations but for the transformative role of associate teams. Nepal’s emphatic seven-wicket victory over Scotland yesterday – their first World Cup win in 12 years – stands as a beacon of this shift. As associates like Nepal and Italy continue to punch above their weight, the tournament is evolving into a more inclusive and unpredictable spectacle. This blog delves into Nepal’s historic triumph, the standout performances of Dipendra Singh Airee and Sompal Kami, broader associate trends, and how these narratives tie into today’s crucial India vs Netherlands clash.
Nepal’s win over Scotland at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo was a statement of intent. Chasing a modest 138, Nepal reached the target in just 15.1 overs with seven wickets in hand. This victory marks their first at a T20 World Cup since 2014, when they defeated Hong Kong and Bangladesh in the group stage. The drought had spanned 12 years and multiple tournaments, including heartbreaking near-misses like their four-run defeat to England earlier in this edition.
The match showcased Nepal’s maturing T20 game. Scotland, batting first after winning the toss, were restricted to 137/8, thanks to a disciplined bowling effort. Nepal’s chase was clinical, blending aggression with composure to seal the deal comfortably. This result not only boosts Nepal’s confidence but also keeps their slim Super 8 hopes alive in Group C, depending on other results.
Read More: From Near-Upsets to Confirmed Blockbusters: How the T20 World Cup 2026 is Growing Global Cricket
At the heart of Nepal’s batting masterclass was Dipendra Singh Airee, whose unbeaten 50 off 32 balls guided the team home. Coming in at No. 4, Airee played a mature innings, rotating the strike early before unleashing calculated aggression. His knock included five fours and two sixes, demonstrating a blend of orthodox shots and innovative scoops that have become his trademark.
Airee’s performance is particularly noteworthy in the context of his World Cup form. He had contributed 44 in the England thriller, showing consistency under pressure. As an all-rounder, his off-spin (though not used much in this match) adds depth to Nepal’s lineup. Experts like former India captain Sunil Gavaskar have praised Airee’s adaptability: “He’s the kind of player associates need – calm in crisis and explosive when required.” This 50* not only silenced doubters but also elevated Airee’s status as a potential franchise league star, with scouts from the IPL and BBL reportedly taking note.
While Airee’s bat stole the headlines, Sompal Kami‘s bowling laid the foundation for victory. The veteran pacer claimed 3/23 in four overs, disrupting Scotland’s top order with pace and swing. His dismissals of openers George Munsey and Michael Jones in the powerplay reduced Scotland to 28/2, from which they never fully recovered.
Kami’s spell was a masterclass in seam bowling on a Colombo track offering variable bounce. At 37, he remains Nepal’s most experienced bowler, with over 100 T20I wickets. His ability to mix yorkers with bouncers kept Scotland’s batters guessing, restricting them to a below-par total. This performance builds on Kami’s consistent contributions, including key wickets in the England game. As associate nations invest in fast-bowling academies, players like Kami exemplify how targeted development can bridge the gap with full members.
Nepal’s success is part of a larger associate renaissance in the 2026 World Cup. Italy’s maiden victory over Nepal on February 12 – chasing 152 with five wickets in hand, thanks to Wayne Madsen’s 62 – was another milestone. Debutants Italy demonstrated tactical maturity, exploiting Nepal’s bowling inconsistencies to secure a landmark win.
These results reflect broader trends: associates have claimed 35% of the tournament’s upsets, up from 15% in 2024. Zimbabwe’s qualification for the Super 8 (confirmed after the Ireland washout) and the Netherlands’ competitive showings highlight improved domestic structures, increased league exposure (e.g., ILT20 for UAE players), and ICC funding. The 20-team format has democratized the event, allowing teams like Nepal and Italy to gain invaluable experience.
Predictions for the future are optimistic. With Super 8 spots still open, associates could influence knockouts, inspiring grassroots growth in non-traditional markets. However, challenges remain – funding disparities and limited bilateral tours – but this World Cup is a step toward a more equitable global game.
Nepal’s win adds intrigue to today’s fixtures, particularly India vs Netherlands in Ahmedabad (7:00 PM IST). The Dutch, who pushed Pakistan close earlier, could draw inspiration from associate successes. India, unbeaten and qualified, will aim for a perfect group finish, but the Netherlands’ spin attack (led by Roelof van der Merwe) might exploit any complacency.
This match ties into the associate theme: the Netherlands, as an associate, have historically troubled India (recall their 2019 ODI World Cup scare). Suryakumar Yadav’s side, with Ishan Kishan in form, will rotate players, but a strong performance maintains momentum for the Super 8. For associates, a competitive showing against India would further validate their rising status.
In my view, the 2026 World Cup is the most competitive yet because it rewards preparation over pedigree. Associates like Nepal are not just participating – they’re reshaping narratives, forcing full members to elevate their game. Predictions: expect one more associate in the Super 8, with Nepal or the Netherlands potentially sneaking in. This inclusivity will drive cricket’s long-term growth, attracting new fans and sponsors.
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A: Nepal chased 138 in 15.1 overs with 7 wickets in hand, thanks to Dipendra Airee’s 50* and Sompal Kami’s 3/23.
A: It highlighted associate competitiveness, giving Italy their first World Cup victory and showing the narrowed gap in T20 cricket.
A: The match starts at 7:00 PM IST in Ahmedabad – a key test for India’s unbeaten run.
A: Possible – Nepal or the Netherlands could qualify with strong finishes, continuing the trend of associate success.
Which associate team has impressed you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments or join the live discussion on SLH. The T20 World Cup 2026 is redefining the game – stream every moment on Sports Live Hub!
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