Nepal vs UAE T20I Series 2026: Historic Night Cricket Debuts at TU Ground

20th April 2026, Kathmandu

In a landmark moment for Nepalese cricket, the national team is set to face the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a two-match T20I series starting today, April 20, 2026.

Nepal vs UAE T20I Series 2026

This series marks the first time international cricket will be played under floodlights at the TU International Cricket Ground, ushering in a new era for sports infrastructure in Nepal.

The matches are scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM NST, allowing fans to experience the thrill of “day-night” cricket in the capital for the first time.

A Bold Strategy: Split Captaincy and Youth Focus

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has introduced a significant tactical change for this series by implementing a split-captaincy model.

Dipendra Singh Airee has been appointed as the T20I Captain.

Senior players, including regular skipper Rohit Paudel, Sompal Kami, and Karan KC, have been rested for this T20I series to prioritize the upcoming ICC CWC League 2 One Day Internationals.

This move signals CAN’s intent to build a specialized T20 squad and test the depth of the national talent pool.

The Nepal T20I Squad

The 15-member squad led by Airee features a blend of explosive hitters and promising young bowlers:

Top Order: Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Lokesh Bam

All-rounders: Dipendra Singh Airee (C), Gulshan Jha, Basir Ahmad

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Wicketkeepers: Arjun Saud

Bowling Attack: Sandeep Lamichhane, Nandan Yadav, Hemant Dhami, Shahab Alam, Sher Malla, Santosh Yadav

Reserves: Pratish GC, Narayan Joshi, Rashid Khan

Why This Series Matters

The rivalry between Nepal and the UAE, often dubbed the “Associate El Clásico,” is one of the most intense in the cricket world. Beyond the rivalry, several factors make this series unique:

Infrastructure Milestone: The successful installation and operation of floodlights at Kirtipur means Nepal can now host international matches during prime-time evening slots.

Strategic Rest: By resting core veterans, the coaching staff is giving opportunities to youngsters like Santosh Yadav and Hemant Dhami to prove their mettle against a high-quality opponent.

Home Advantage: Playing under lights at home is expected to provide a significant psychological boost to the players, supported by a sold-out evening crowd.

Match Schedule

Conclusion

As the floodlights turn on at the TU Ground today, it isn’t just about the runs or the wickets; it’s about the evolution of Nepalese cricket.

With Dipendra Singh Airee at the helm of a hungry, young squad, fans are in for a high-octane battle against the UAE.

For more: Nepal vs UAE T20I Series 2026