Nepal captain Rohit Paudel says the Rhinos are heading into the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 with strong preparation, clear targets, and a belief that Nepal can challenge any opponent if the team delivers as a unit.
Speaking as the tournament approaches, Paudel highlighted that Nepal’s build-up has been structured and intense, starting nearly a month ago with a focused preparation block.
"We started preparation about a month ago,” Paudel said, adding that Nepal's fitness camp and time in Sri Lanka for training and matches have helped the squad shape up well. "Overall, the preparation has been really good."
"Everyone’s target is to win - but Super 8 is the goal"
With Nepal set to face heavyweight opposition in the World Cup, Paudel said the mindset inside the group is competitive, but also grounded in realistic objectives.
"Obviously, everyone's target is to win matches," he said. "But if we are realistic, the ultimate goal is to qualify for the Super 8. For that, we need 100% effort as a team."
Paudel believes Nepal have "real chances" to push for that next step - but only if the team plays its best cricket consistently across the group stage.
Familiar conditions, big opportunity
One of Paudel’s strongest points was about conditions. With the 2026 edition being played in India and Sri Lanka, he feels Nepal's comfort in Asian conditions can be an important advantage.
"Condition-wise, it's very close," he said, noting that Nepal are more used to this type of environment compared to overseas tournaments. "In India, like Mumbai, it feels familiar. I think it helps us - and our chances become better."
For Nepal cricket, Paudel also sees the tournament as more than just results. In his view, playing a World Cup in the subcontinent can accelerate exposure and development for players and the wider system.
Confidence built from close games - and big wins
Paudel acknowledged the frustration from past close contests, but said those moments have also strengthened the team’s belief.
"We had close games before - like South Africa and Bangladesh - there was disappointment," he said. “But still, the belief and character we showed was positive.”
He also referenced Nepal’s ability to beat established teams, saying those results have reinforced the idea that Nepal can compete at the top level when they execute well.
"If we give 110%, anything can happen" - even against England
Asked about facing elite teams, Paudel didn’t frame it as fear — but as a challenge Nepal must embrace with discipline and intent.
“In T20 cricket, if you play your best cricket and give 110%, anything can happen,” he said. “Whether it’s England or Italy — if we give 100% effort and play good cricketing shots with good awareness, we can challenge them. No one can take matches lightly.”
"Fans should support us — we’ll try to make you proud"
Paudel ended with a direct message to Nepali supporters, urging them to back the team in stadiums and from home.
"Support us at the ground, and from TV as well," he said. "Keep loving us and keep believing. We will try our best to make you proud."
