NEP vs ITA Dream11 Prediction, Match 17 – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Fantasy Tips, Playing XI
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 enters an intriguing phase with Match 17 featuring Nepal and Italy in Group C at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune. Nepal’s fearless batting approach and improving bowling unit make them one of the associate sides to watch, while Italy, led by experienced T20 performers, will look to maintain consistency and build momentum in the global event.
Nepal have shown growth in their batting structure in recent T20 contests, balancing aggression with stability. Italy, with a mix of seasoned T20 internationals and emerging talents, will aim to capitalize on batting conditions and strategic bowling in Pune. This clash offers a fascinating contest between two ambitious associate teams aiming to make an impact.
For fantasy cricket players, today’s NEP vs ITA Dream11 Prediction features players from both sides who could deliver high fantasy points, making captain and vice-captain choices vital for Dream11 and similar platforms. Updated probable playing XI and match strategy will offer useful insight for your today match prediction.
Match Details
| Match | Nepal vs Italy, Match 17 – Group C |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Match Type | T20 International |
| Date | Friday, 13 February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 PM IST / 9:30 AM GMT |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
| Live Telecast | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar / ICC Platforms |
Match timing and venue details confirmed per official schedule.
Pitch Report & Conditions
The pitch at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai is typically balanced with a slight edge toward the batters. Early innings may see batters taking advantage of consistent bounce, while slower surfaces later in the game can assist spinners in controlling the middle overs.
Average first-innings scores in T20s at this venue range between 160 and 180 runs. Teams batting first often look to set competitive totals, but chasing can be effective if batters read conditions well. Fantasy players should include top-order batters, impactful all-rounders and bowlers who can take early wickets or dominate at key phases.
Team Preview & Probable Playing XI
Nepal Team Preview
Nepal enter this match with a well-balanced squad capable of scoring runs at a steady pace. Their batting lineup features players who can apply pressure and anchor innings, while their bowling unit offers variations in pace and spin.
Nepal Probable Playing XI (based on latest squads):
- Rohit Paudel (c & wk)
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Aasif Sheikh
- Aarif Sheikh
- Sundeep Jora
- Gulshan Jha
- Sompal Kami
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Basir Ahamad
- Karan KC
This probable XI is based on confirmed squad lists and expected roles.
Italy Team Preview
Italy’s T20 unit combines experience and young talent. Their batting lineup includes aggressive scorers and anchors, while their bowling unit seeks to create pressure in different phases of the game. Italy’s tactical planning will be key in this associate battle against Nepal.
Italy Probable Playing XI (based on confirmed squad):
- Gian-Piero Meade (c)
- Joy Perera (wk)
- D’Arcy Short
- Marcus Thurgate
- Nicholas Bruce
- Damith Kosala
- Harmanjot Singh
- Kasturiwal Singh
- Matthew Salter
- Alex Ross
- Sam Billings (role depending)
This probable XI is subject to final confirmation and team strategy shifts closer to match time. (based on typical T20 squad structure)
Top Fantasy Picks
Batters
- Rohit Paudel – Nepal’s batting torchbearer
- Dipendra Singh Airee – Power hitting potential
- D’Arcy Short – Italy’s explosive talent
All-Rounders
- Aasif Sheikh – Multi-phase contributions
- Sompal Kami – Bowling + lower order runs potential
Bowlers
- Sandeep Lamichhane – Spin specialist with wicket threat
- Gulshan Jha – Attack variation
- Nicholas Bruce – Italy pace option
These picks are based on roles, expected involvement and conditions.
Captain & Vice-Captain Picks
Small League Picks
- Captain: Rohit Paudel
- Vice-Captain: D’Arcy Short
Grand League Picks
- Captain: Sandeep Lamichhane
- Vice-Captain: Dipendra Singh Airee
These captain & vice-captain picks balance consistent scoring and wicket-taking potential.
Match Prediction & Fantasy Strategy
Nepal enter this contest as slight favourites due to their stronger batting depth and balanced bowling options. Their ability to build partnerships and rotate strike efficiently gives them leverage on batting-friendly surfaces. Italy, while competitive, may need a strategic bowling effort and aggressive starts from top batters to challenge Nepal.
For a solid fantasy strategy:
- Prioritize top-order batters
- Include spin bowlers with strike potential
- Choose all-rounders who can influence both bat and ball
This today match prediction suggests Nepal’s experience and batting depth could make the difference, but Italy’s dynamic players can create fantasy-worthy moments.
Conclusion
The NEP vs ITA Dream11 Prediction for Match 17 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 offers exciting fantasy cricket insights. With a balanced pitch and impactful players on both sides, choosing the right probable playing XI and captain picks will be key. Use this match preview, pitch report and fantasy tips to make informed decisions for your Dream11 lineup in today’s match prediction.
