ICC World Cup Qualifier Playoff in Nepal | ODI World Cup Dreams Alive
22nd October 2026, Kathmandu
Nepal will host the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Playoff from Dec 4 to 21. Learn how Team Nepal can still qualify for the ODI World Cup.
In a major boost for Nepalese cricket, Nepal is all set to host the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Playoff. According to the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), the tournament will take place on home soil from December 4 to December 21.
Nepal recently finished sixth in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series. While missing out on the top four meant missing direct qualification to the World Cup Qualifiers, this upcoming playoff keeps Nepal’s dream of playing in the ODI World Cup very much alive.
Paras Khadka Urges Team: “Our ODI World Cup Dream is Still Alive”
Following the announcement, CAN Secretary and former national team captain Paras Khadka shared an inspiring message with players and fans across social media.
Expressing confidence in the team’s potential, Khadka wrote:
“Our ODI World Cup dream is still alive. Let’s move forward, boys. We will keep pushing, believing, and aiming higher. Taking it step by step towards the big dream.”
Hosting the event gives Team Nepal a significant home-ground advantage, with passionate local supporters ready to cheer them on as they strive for a spot in the main qualifiers.
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Understanding the ICC World Cup Qualifier Playoff Format
The International Cricket Council (ICC) structures the qualification pathway as follows:
Top 4 from League 2: Earn direct entry into the primary ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
Bottom 4 from League 2 (including Nepal): Move to the Qualifier Playoff for a second chance.
The 8-Team Battle: The bottom four teams from League 2 compete alongside the top 4 teams from the ICC Challenge League.
The Outcome: The top 4 teams from this 8-team playoff tournament advance to the final ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
The ICC designed the playoff as a second chance for teams to re-enter the World Cup qualification roadmap. With home conditions and incredible fan support, Nepal has a strong opportunity to bounce back and secure its spot in the next stage.
For more: ICC World Cup Qualifier Playoff in Nepal
