Key Highlights
- England open their 2026 T20 World Cup campaign against Nepal on Sunday.
- Harry Brook faces pressure as captain after recent controversies.
- England come into the tournament in good form with a 3-0 series win in Sri Lanka.
- Nepal’s previous World Cup appearances ended early, but they aim to improve.
The Pressure on Harry Brook
Butterflies fluttered around England’s captain, Harry Brook. You might think this is new, but… the 26-year-old has been under fire after an altercation with a nightclub bouncer during his team’s recent tour of New Zealand last year. Will Jacks, Brook’s roommate from Under-19 days, backed him up: “Obviously, it’s been tough, and that’s well documented in the media.” But what of the cricket?
Brook wants to shift focus onto his batting.
“He wants his cricket to do the talking,” Will Jacks said. It’s a tall order for someone who needs to prove himself on and off the field.
England’s Form Leading Up
England enters the 2026 T20 World Cup in good spirits, fresh from a 3-0 series win over Sri Lanka. The explosive Brook bludgeoned 136 off just 66 balls, making his case as a key player. Team unity and confidence are high, but there’s no room for complacency.
“It’s not so much we are taking momentum from that, but team unity,” said Jacks. “We have been performing well over the last 12 months, since Harry’s become captain.”
Nepal’s Historical Struggle
Nepal has made its second appearance in the World Cup, but both times ended in early exits. They’ll be looking to break that jinx. “We come into here full of confidence and belief,” said an English player. “But there’s no guarantee. We know amazing teams are out there.”
“India on home soil? Everyone knows who’s the favourites.”
The Starting Lineups
England named their team for the opener against Nepal at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Phil Salt is back after missing Tuesday’s match with a back spasm. He’ll open alongside Jos Buttler.
“Salt passed fit,” said an English player. “Tom Banton and Jofra Archer are included.”
“England have opted to have four spinners at their disposal, with spearhead Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson backed up by all-rounders Jacob Bethell and Will Jacks.”
It’s a strong lineup, but the pressure is on Brook.
Can he deliver? The 2026 T20 World Cup will tell.