England defeated Nepal by just four runs in their first match of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Harry Brook’s side entered the game full of confidence after beating Sri Lanka 3-0 in their recent T20 series.
Brook (53), Jacob Bethell (55) and Will Jacks (39) gave England a solid score of 184 to defend at the Wankhede Stadium.
Most would then have expected a comfortable victory against the 16th-ranked team in the world, but it went down to the final ball.
Lokesh Bam only scored two from Sam Curran’s last delivery when six was required to tie the game, as England narrowly avoided disaster.
Cricket legends Dale Steyn, Ravi Ashwin and Yuvraj Singh have since reacted to the exciting battle on social media.
Ravi Ashwin and Yuvraj Singh praise Nepal for scaring England
Ravi Ashwin pointed out that Nepal have made a name for themselves with their performance against England.
Nobody expected them to give England such a close game, so they have earned the respect of the cricket world despite ultimately losing the match.
“Incredible from Nepal,” Ashwin tweeted. “They are surely one of the best amongst emerging cricketing nations. Huge potential and upside.”
Ashwin’s former Indian teammate, Yuvraj Singh, made a similar comment about Nepal’s development into a dangerous team.
He posted on X: “Huge respect to Nepal. Took on one of the best teams in the world, stayed in the fight till the very last ball, and showed what belief and heart can do!
“This is how teams grow, and this is how champions rise. The cricketing world is watching!”
Dale Steyn offers to help Nepal after defeat to England
Former South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn shared a different response to Nepal’s encouraging performance.
Steyn has turned to coaching since he retired from professional cricket and would be interested in helping Nepal.
“Nepal, I offer my services to you if you ever need ’em! Up, up and UP!” he commented.
Nepal would be wise to accept Steyn’s offer at the earliest opportunity, as there may not be anyone with more pace-bowling expertise on the planet.
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