In Group C encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the West Indies face off in opposition to Nepal on the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Match 25 of the match carries vital weight for either side: a win for the West Indies just about ensures them a spot within the Tremendous 8, whereas for Nepal, it’s a determined struggle for survival after a crushing defeat to Italy.
With the humidity of Mumbai hanging over the pitch and the morning moisture promising early motion, West Indies captain Shai Hope gained the toss and elected to bowl. Nevertheless, the largest speaking level of the morning wasn’t simply the toss, however the absence of a key participant who has been a match-winner for the Caribbean facet all through this marketing campaign.
Right here’s why Romario Shepherd is lacking at this time’s motion
Followers had been stunned to see Romario Shepherd‘s title lacking from the crew sheet at this time. Shepherd has been in blistering type, even claiming a sensational hat-trick earlier within the match in opposition to Scotland. Through the toss, Hope clarified that the all-rounder is sidelined because of a slight niggle.
“Shepherd’s been struggling a bit of bit. We simply need to ensure precautionary measures are being put in place. It’s necessary for us to make sure we cowl all our bases and hit all our straps as we glance towards the later levels of the match,” Hope defined throughout the toss.
Given the gruelling schedule of the 2026 T20 World Cup, the West Indies administration has opted for a security first strategy. Resting Shepherd at this time permits him time to recuperate absolutely for the Tremendous 8 fixtures, making certain their major death-overs specialist and lower-order power-hitter isn’t risked in opposition to a struggling Nepal facet. In his absence, the younger and versatile Matthew Forde has been drafted into the XI, offering Hope with an analogous tempo choice and helpful lower-order batting.
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WI vs NEP: Enjoying XI of each the groups
Nepal: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Aarif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane
West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope (wk/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph
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