Two-time champions England survived a huge scare to edge out Nepal in a thrilling opening group game in the men’s T20 World Cup. They posted 184, Jacob Bethell top-scoring with 55 from 35 balls faced and Brook making 53 from 32. Debutants Italy complete the group, becoming the 25th different national team to feature at a men’s T20 World Cup. AdvertisementThis would have been an even greater shock because England are widely fancied to win this tournament and add a third T20 title at Ahmedabad on March 8. How close Nepal came at the Wankhede Stadium and what a demonstration this was of the ability that has made them the fastest growing cricket nation in the world.

Source: International New York Times February 08, 2026 15:43 UTC