Why Sompal Kami is Not Playing Today in ENG vs NEP T20 World Cup 2026?

The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is set to host its second match of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 as Nepal and England are playing against each other. It's the tournament opener for both teams, and England have opted to bat first after winning the toss.

Meanwhile, a surprising announcement was made by Nepal skipper Rohit Paudel, who confirmed the veteran pacer Sompal Kami's absence from the playing XI. It was surprising to see Kami missing out since he is a key part of Nepal's bowling attack.

Why Sompal Kami is Not Playing Today?

Sompal Kami, an experienced fast bowler for Nepal, is not playing the ENG vs NEP T20 World Cup 2026 match as Nepal chose a different team composition. Instead of him, Nepal decided to go with an extra batter. Lokesh Bam has been named as Sompal Kami replacement for the match.

Apart from that, off-spinner Sher Malla also made his international debut in this match. Being a spinner, Malla might get some help from the surface at the Wankhede Stadium, one of the smallest cricket stadiums in India. It is the same venue for the IND vs USA game, where spinners had a great time.

Nepal's bowling attack for the England vs Nepal match consists of Karan KC, Sher Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Nandan Yadav, Kushal Bhurtel, and Sandeep Lamichhane. Nepal did well to restrict England earlier but they managed to score 184-7 in 20 overs.

Sompal Kami's International Career

Sompal Kami is one of the most experienced active players in the Nepal cricket team. The veteran pacer carries a lot of experience as he has played in the international matches as well as some of the biggest cricket leagues in the world.

The right-arm pacer has played 86 T20I matches so far in his career and has picked a total of 81 wickets at an average of 23.74. Keeping a player of his caliber out of the team might bring trouble for the Nepal and he might feature in the upcoming matches.
In his absence, the onus will be on Karan KC, who is leading this bowling attack. The eyes will also be on Sandeep Lamichhane, the only player from Nepal to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Nepal cricket has grown immensely over the years and this World Cup will be a big test for them.