England scraped home by four runs against a fearless Nepal in Mumbai, escaping what would have been one of the greatest upsets in T20 World Cup history. Chasing 185, Nepal finished on 180 for 6, falling just short despite a breathtaking late surge.
England’s total of 184 for 7 was built around half-centuries from Jacob Bethell (55) and Harry Brook (53), with Will Jacks providing vital late impetus with 39 not out from No. 7. Jacks’ three sixes in the final over proved decisive in a match where every run mattered.
Nepal’s reply began with intent. Kushal Bhurtel took on the new ball, before Dipendra Singh Airee and Rohit Paudel stitched together a superb 82-run partnership that kept the chase firmly alive. Airee’s sweeps and reverses, combined with Paudel’s authority against spin, ensured Nepal never lost touch with the required rate.
When both fell in quick succession, England sensed relief—but Lokesh Bam had other ideas. His audacious assault, including two towering sixes off Jofra Archer, brought the equation down to 10 off the final over, sending Nepal’s travelling supporters into raptures.
Under immense pressure, Sam Curran held his nerve, nailing yorkers to concede just five runs. Bam’s final-ball heave found the deep, sealing England’s escape.
For Nepal, it was cruel heartbreak—another near-miss after their one-run loss to South Africa in 2024—but their performance underlined their growing stature. England, meanwhile, began their campaign with a win, but with clear lessons after an uncharacteristically ragged showing with the ball.