England Playing XI vs Nepal announced for T20 World Cup 2026 Match 5

England's probable playing XI vs Nepal [Source: @englandcricket/X.com]

England will kick off their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a fascinating Group C clash against Nepal at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. The match will be held on February 8 at 3:00 PM IST.

The fixture brings together a seasoned heavyweight and one of world cricket’s most ambitious associate sides, both playing their opening game of the tournament. 

England will arrive with strong form, depth, and title credentials, while Nepal will carry confidence from a flawless qualification run and nothing to lose on the big stage. 

With contrasting styles, high expectations, and Wankhede’s run-friendly conditions, this contest promises intrigue beyond the obvious gap on paper.

The England and Wales Cricket Board has announced their playing XI for their T20 World Cup match vs Nepal.

England playing XI vs Nepal- Match 5, ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Top Order - Phil Salt to open with Jos Buttler

• England’s real strength lies at the top. Phil Salt is likely to open the innings and also take up wicketkeeping duties. Salt plays fearless cricket and can put pressure on bowlers from the first over. 
• Jos Buttler is expected to partner him. Buttler thrives on pace and uses angles well. Against a relatively inexperienced Nepal bowling attack, his intent could set the tone early.
• Will Jacks should slot in at number three. The all-rounder is flashy and can take on the spinners quite well. He also knows how to pace an innings and can switch gears when required. His role will be crucial if openers fall early.

Middle Order - Captain Harry Brook to take charge

• Harry Brook will lead England and bat at number four. Brook enjoys responsibility and has shown maturity in pressure situations. His attacking style suits the T20 format perfectly. Now that he is the captain, Brook’s responsibilities are doubled. Regardless, he will anchor the inning beautifully if set.
• Jacob Bethell could bat at number five. The young all-rounder offers flexibility. He can accelerate when needed and also chip in with the ball if required.
• Tom Banton is likely to follow. His power-hitting ability makes him dangerous in the death overs. While consistency remains a question, England will back his match-winning potential.
• Sam Curran adds balance to the side. Batting at number seven, he can steady the innings or go big late. His left-arm pace gives England an extra bowling option. 

Bowlers - Jofra Archer to lead the attack

• Liam Dawson is expected to play as the spin all-rounder. He provides control in the middle overs and can contribute handy runs down the order.
• Adil Rashid is likely to be their main spinner. He has many variations and is experienced, which could come in handy when facing teams who are generally weak against spin.
• Jofra Archer will lead the pace attack. His speed and bounce can trouble any batting lineup. Archer is also useful with the bat, so he is a no-brainer choice.
• Luke Wood is likely to partner with Archer in the pace attack. He brings pace and aggression and has impressed in limited opportunities..

Overall, England will aim to dominate Nepal with early runs and sustained bowling pressure. A solid performance here could set the momentum for the rest of their World Cup campaign.]

England playing XI Vs Nepal for T20 World Cup, Match 5- Phil Salt (wk), Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Harry Brook (c), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Luke Wood