Cricket fans are in for a treat as Nepal takes on Namibia in the 116th match of the ICC Cricket World Cup League Two 2023-27. This high-stakes encounter is set to take place on July 21, 2026, at the iconic Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. With both teams fighting hard for a spot in the 2027 Cricket World Cup, this match carries immense significance. If you’re searching for a detailed Nepal vs Namibia match prediction, expert analysis, and all the key stats, you’ve come to the right place.
Match Overview – Nepal vs Namibia 116th ODI
| Match Details | Information | |
| Match | Nepal vs Namibia, 116th Match | |
| Tournament | ICC Cricket World Cup League Two 2023-27 | |
| Date | July 21, 2026 | |
| Venue | Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur | |
| Time | 2:30 PM LOCAL | 9:00 AM GMT |
| Series Standing | Both teams are locked in a tight battle for World Cup qualification |
This match is more than just another fixture—it’s a crucial step toward securing direct qualification for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027. Every point matters, and both teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
Nepal vs Namibia Head to Head Record
Understanding the Nepal vs Namibia head to head record gives us valuable insights into how these two sides match up against each other.
| Stat | Details |
| Total ODIs Played | 8 |
| Namibia Wins | 5 |
| Nepal Wins | 2 |
| No Result | 1 |
| Last 5 Matches | Namibia leads 4-1 |
Key Head-to-Head Insights:
- Namibia has historically dominated this rivalry, winning 5 out of 8 encounters.
- Nepal’s two wins came in 2022 and 2023, both on home soil—a positive sign for the home crowd.
- The last ODI series between these two teams in February 2024 saw Namibia win both matches (by 4 wickets and 2 wickets).
- Rohit Paudel’s captaincy record against Namibia: 2 wins and 3 losses.
Despite Namibia’s superior record, Nepal’s home advantage at Kirtipur could level the playing field significantly.
Nepal Squad Analysis – Strengths & Weaknesses
Nepal Squad List:
Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee (vc), Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Aarif Sheikh, Ishan Pandey, Bhim Sharki, Arjun Kumal, Gulsan Jha, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Binod Bhandari.
Batting Unit
Nepal’s batting revolves around their explosive openers—Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh. Both have the ability to take the game away from the opposition in the powerplay overs. Captain Rohit Paudel anchors the middle order with his calm and composed approach, while Dipendra Singh Airee provides the finishing firepower.
Key Batters:
- Kushal Bhurtel: Has scored a century against Namibia; aggressive stroke-maker
- Aasif Sheikh: Reliable wicketkeeper-batter who can build innings
- Rohit Paudel: Over 1,000 runs in ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 matches
Bowling Attack
The spin trio of Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, and Dipendra Singh Airee could be game-changers on the slow Kirtipur pitch. Lamichhane, in particular, has a phenomenal record at home and has previously taken a 4-wicket haul against Namibia.
Key Bowlers:
- Sandeep Lamichhane: World-class leg-spinner; deadly on turning tracks
- Sompal Kami: Experienced pacer who can swing the new ball
- Karan KC: Hit-the-deck bowler with good variations
Namibia Squad Analysis – Strengths & Weaknesses
Namibia Squad List:
Gerhard Erasmus (c), Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Malan Kruger, Jan Frylinck, Louren Steenkamp, Zane Green (wk), JJ Smit, Ruben Trumpelmann, Bernard Scholtz, Jack Brassell, Max Heingo, Michael van Lingen, Waldo Smith, Alexander Volschenk.
Batting Unit
Namibia’s batting lineup is explosive and experienced. Michael van Lingen and Gerhard Erasmus form one of the most dangerous opening pairs in League Two cricket. Both have the ability to score quickly and put pressure on the opposition from ball one.
Key Batters:
- Michael van Lingen: Has scored a century against Nepal; aggressive left-hander
- Gerhard Erasmus: Captain with 100% winning record against Nepal as captain
- Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton: Young talent with the ability to accelerate in death overs
Bowling Attack
Namibia’s bowling unit is well-balanced with pace and spin options. Ruben Trumpelmann leads the pace attack with his raw speed and swing, while Bernard Scholtz provides control in the middle overs with his left-arm spin.
Key Bowlers:
- Ruben Trumpelmann: Fast bowler who can clock over 140 kmph
- Bernard Scholtz: Economical left-arm spinner who can stifle run-flow
- JJ Smit: All-rounder who bowls useful medium pace
Kirtipur Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur is known for its unique character. Here’s what to expect:
Pitch Behavior
- Surface Type: Slow, low bounce – typical subcontinental wicket
- Spin Assistance: Significant turn as the match progresses
- Pacers: Need to rely on variations and cutters
- Average 1st Innings Score: 230-260 (competitive total)
- Chasing Record: Teams batting first have historically had more success
Weather Forecast
- Temperature: Around 25-28°C
- Conditions: Partly cloudy with no rain expected
- Humidity: Moderate
- Impact: Perfect conditions for a full 50-over match
Pitch Verdict: The spinner-friendly nature of the Kirtipur pitch heavily favors Nepal’s bowling attack. Expect the team winning the toss to bat first and try to post a challenging total on the board.
Nepal vs Namibia Match Prediction 2026 – Who Will Win?
After analyzing all factors—including head-to-head records, team form, pitch conditions, and player matchups—here’s our detailed match prediction for NEP vs NAM.
Factors Favoring Nepal
Home Advantage: Nepal knows the Kirtipur conditions better than anyone
Spin Bowling: Lamichhane, Rajbanshi, and Airee can be unplayable on this surface
Recent Form: Nepal has been consistent at home
Fan Support: Expect a packed stadium cheering for the home team
Captaincy: Rohit Paudel has led from the front in pressure situations
Factors Favoring Namibia
Superior Record: Namibia leads 5-2 in ODIs against Nepal
Explosive Top Order: Van Lingen and Erasmus can take the game away quickly
Balanced Attack: Trumpelmann and Scholtz provide variety
Captaincy Record: Erasmus has never lost as captain against Nepal (3 wins)
Pressure Handling: Namibia has more experience in crunch situations
Final Prediction
Match Winner: Nepal (51% chances)
Namibia (49% chances)
Why Nepal? The Kirtipur pitch is a spinner’s paradise, and Nepal’s spin trio is perfectly suited to exploit these conditions. While Namibia has a better overall head-to-head record, playing at home on a turning track gives Nepal a slight but significant edge. If Nepal’s top order can post a competitive total of 240+, their spinners will be difficult to handle in the second innings.
Verdict: Nepal to win a closely contested match.
Nepal vs Namibia Dream11 Prediction – Fantasy Team Suggestions
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, here’s a quick Dream11 team suggestion:
| Role | Players |
| Wicketkeeper | Aasif Sheikh, Zane Green |
| Batters | Michael van Lingen, Rohit Paudel, Kushal Bhurtel |
| All-rounders | Dipendra Singh Airee, JJ Smit, Jan Frylinck |
| Bowlers | Sandeep Lamichhane, Ruben Trumpelmann, Bernard Scholtz |
Captain Choice: Michael van Lingen or Sandeep Lamichhane
Vice-Captain Choice: Rohit Paudel or Gerhard Erasmus
Key Match-Ups to Watch
| Battle | Analysis |
| Van Lingen vs Lamichhane | Nepal’s best spinner vs Namibia’s best batter – the game could be decided here |
| Bhurtel vs Trumpelmann | Aggressive opener vs fiery pacer – powerplay battle |
| Erasmus vs Rajbanshi | Captain’s experience vs left-arm spin |
| Airee vs Scholtz | Nepal’s finisher vs Namibia’s economical spinner |
ICC Cricket World Cup League Two – Points Table Impact
This match has significant implications for the ICC Cricket World Cup League Two 2023-27 standings:
| Position | Team | Points | Matches |
| 5th | Nepal | 24 | 28 |
| 7th | Namibia | 22 | 28 |
A win for Nepal would solidify their 5th position and bring them closer to the top 3. Conversely, Namibia needs a win to climb above Nepal and keep their qualification hopes alive. The race for the top four spots is extremely tight, making every match a must-win situation.
Where to Watch Nepal vs Namibia Live
- Live Streaming: ICC.tv and official broadcast partners
- Live Score: Available on all major cricket apps and websites
- Telecast: Check local listings for your region
Conclusion – Final Thoughts
The Nepal vs Namibia match on July 21, 2026, promises to be a thrilling contest between two determined sides. While Namibia holds the historical advantage, Nepal’s home conditions and spin-heavy attack make them favorites for this encounter.
Key Takeaways:
- Pitch favors spinners – Nepal has an edge
- Namibia’s top order is explosive but vulnerable to spin
- Toss could play a crucial role
- Expect a low-scoring, spin-dominated match
Our Final Call: Nepal to win by a narrow margin in a low-scoring thriller.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who won the last match between Nepal and Namibia?
Namibia won the last two ODI matches against Nepal in February 2024.
Q2: Is Sandeep Lamichhane playing today?
Yes, Sandeep Lamichhane is part of Nepal’s squad for this match.
Q3: What is the pitch report for Kirtipur?
The pitch is slow, low-bounce, and assists spinners significantly.
Q4: What is Nepal’s ranking in ICC Cricket World Cup League Two?
Nepal is currently in 5th position with 24 points.
Q5: Who is the captain of Namibia?
Gerhard Erasmus is the captain of the Namibia cricket team.
Q6: What time does the match start?
The match starts at 2:30 PM LOCAL (9:00 AM GMT).