ENG vs NEP Dream11 Prediction, Match 5 – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Fantasy Tips, Playing XI
Can Nepal’s spin attack put England under pressure at Wankhede? Updated Dream11 fantasy tips, probable playing XI, and captain picks inside.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 intensifies with Match 5 of the Group C stage, featuring a compelling clash between England and Nepal. England enter this fixture as one of the heavyweights of the tournament, boasting firepower and experience across batting and bowling departments. Nepal, on the other hand, represent one of the most passionate associate nations with a fearless approach and key match-winners who can surprise big teams on their day.
England have shown strong form in T20 cricket recently, finishing their preparatory series with solid performances ahead of the World Cup. Their squad balance combines explosive batsmen, useful all-rounders, and varied bowling options suited to sub-continental conditions.
Nepal have earned their World Cup spot through consistent performances in qualifiers and bring a spirited unit that thrives on collective energy. With experienced T20 representatives and match-aware spinners, they could pose challenges if conditions support their strengths.
For fantasy cricket players, today’s match prediction and Dream11 tips hinge on players who offer consistent fantasy point potential through runs, wickets, and all-round contributions. Choosing the right captain and vice-captain picks from the probable playing XI will be critical.
Match Details
| Match | England vs Nepal, Match 5 – Group C |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Match Type | T20 International |
| Date | Sunday, 8 February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 PM IST / 9:30 AM GMT |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, India |
| Live Telecast | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar / ICC Official Platforms |
All match time and venue details have been confirmed from multiple official sources.
Pitch Report & Conditions
The surface at Wankhede Stadium typically offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. Pacers can extract bounce due to the hard deck, while spinners often play significant roles in the middle overs. Early aggression from openers could set the tone, but teams that rotate strikes and build partnerships are likely to score above par.
Average T20 first-innings scores at Wankhede generally hover around 160–180 runs. Dew is not expected to be a major factor early in the tournament, so bowlers could have a strategic advantage in the death overs.
Fantasy players should focus on all-rounders, top-order batters, and wicket-taking bowlers for ideal captain and vice-captain picks. Including quality spinners can also pay dividends, given the nature of the pitch.
Team Preview & Probable Playing XI
England Team Preview
England enter this tournament with a strong, well-balanced squad. Their batting lineup is stacked with explosive hitters and middle-order finishers. The bowling unit includes strike pacers and experienced spinners who have performed well in sub-continental conditions. With captain Harry Brook leading from the front, England will aim to start their campaign in style.
England Probable Playing XI (Based on official squad & recent form):
- Jos Buttler (wk)
- Phil Salt
- Harry Brook (c)
- Ben Duckett
- Will Jacks
- Sam Curran
- Jacob Bethell
- Rehan Ahmed
- Adil Rashid
- Jofra Archer
- Josh Tongue
This XI is probable and based on the confirmed squad, team balance, and condition adaptability.
Nepal Team Preview
Nepal bring a passionate and well-rounded squad to the World Cup stage. Their batting lineup includes technically sound batters capable of anchoring innings, while their bowling options feature experienced spinners like Sandeep Lamichhane, who can exploit sub-continental pitches. Led by Rohit Paudel, Nepal will aim to punch above their weight and cause an upset.
Nepal Probable Playing XI (Based on confirmed squad):
- Rohit Paudel (c)
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Aasif Sheikh
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Aarif Sheikh
- Sundeep Jora
- Gulshan Jha
- Sompal Kami
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Basir Ahamad
- Karan KC
This probable playing XI reflects Nepal’s key performers and squad balance for T20 competition.
Top Fantasy Picks
Batters
- Jos Buttler – Proven T20 run scorer
- Harry Brook – Form and impact potential
- Phil Salt – Explosive runs at the top
- Rohit Paudel – Key Nepal bat anchor
All-Rounders
- Sam Curran – All-round fantasy reliability
- Dipendra Singh Airee – Nepal’s impactful all-round option
Bowlers
- Adil Rashid – Spin wicket potential
- Jofra Archer – Fast bowling threat
- Sandeep Lamichhane – Nepal’s star spinner
These picks are based on role clarity, recent form, and expected involvement across innings.
Captain & Vice-Captain Picks
Small League Picks
- Captain: Harry Brook
- Vice-Captain: Sandeep Lamichhane
Grand League Picks
- Captain: Jos Buttler
- Vice-Captain: Sam Curran
These captain and vice-captain picks balance consistency with high impact, ideal for maximizing fantasy points.
Match Prediction & Fantasy Strategy
England begin as clear favourites against Nepal based on squad depth, recent performances, and experience in high-pressure T20 competitions. Their batting firepower and varied bowling attack make them strong contenders in this group match.
For fantasy strategy:
- Prioritize top-order batters
- Include all-rounders who bowl and bat
- Choose at least two specialist bowlers
- Don’t overload on one team — maintain XI balance
This today match prediction suggests England’s experience could prevail, but Nepal should not be underestimated, especially if their spinners exploit helpful conditions.
Conclusion
The ENG vs NEP Dream11 Prediction for Match 5 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 provides comprehensive fantasy tips, updated probable playing XI, and captain & vice-captain picks. With a balanced pitch and talented lineups on both sides, smart Dream11 strategies could make a significant difference in your fantasy contests. Stay updated with last-minute changes and toss details for the best results from today’s match prediction.
