T20 World Cup Clash: Nepal opt to bat first against Italy (photos)

KATHMANDU: Nepal set to bat first against Italy in their ICC T20 World Cup encounter after Italy won the toss and elected to field at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Nepal have made one change to their lineup, bringing in left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi in place of off-spinner Sher Malla.

Malla had made a memorable T20 International debut in the previous match, claiming a wicket with his very first delivery.

The match is being played on the same pitch where England and West Indies faced off a day earlier. West Indies smashed 13 sixes in that contest, while England managed six in reply, suggesting favorable conditions for big hitting.

Nepal’s playing XI includes Rohit, Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam, Gulshan Jha, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, and Lalit Rajbanshi.

Italy are without their regular captain Wayne Madsen, who suffered a shoulder injury during their group-stage opener against Scotland in Kolkata. Harry Manenti is leading the side in his absence.

Italian fast bowler Thomas Draca is familiar with Nepal’s cricketing conditions, having previously featured in the Nepal Premier League.

He represented champion side Lumbini Lions in a match against Sudurpashchim Royals.

This marks Nepal’s third appearance in the T20 World Cup, while Italy are making their debut in the tournament. It is also the first-ever T20 meeting between the two sides. However, Nepal hold a dominant record in 50-over cricket, having defeated Italy comfortably in all three previous encounters.

Nepal narrowly lost their opening match to England by four runs, whereas Italy were beaten by Scotland by 73 runs.

With both teams seeking their first win of the campaign, the clash promises high intensity at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.

Photos: