NEP vs UAE T20 World Cup Warm-up: Match Preview and Fantasy XI

A fascinating clash awaits as an in form Nepal takes on a struggling U.A.E. in a T20 World Cup warm up fixture. The match is set to unfold at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Nepal enters this contest with five consecutive wins, showcasing stellar performances from players like Aasif Sheikh and Sandeep Lamichhane. In stark contrast, U.A.E. has lost its last five matches and will be desperate for a turnaround before the main tournament begins.

Match Details

• Match: Nepal vs U.A.E., ICC Men's T20 World Cup Warm up
• Date: 03 February 2026
• Time: 05:00 PM IST
• Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Weather Report

The weather in Chennai is expected to be warm and humid, with temperatures around 29°C. There is a very low probability of rain, so a full match is expected. The high humidity will bring the dew factor into play during the second innings, which could make gripping the ball difficult for bowlers and might favor the team chasing the target.

Pitch Report & Venue Stats

The pitch at the MA Chidambaram Stadium is known for being a balanced wicket that offers something for both batters and bowlers. The average first innings score here is 158 runs. While pacers have taken more wickets (38) compared to spinners (29) in the last five games, the Chennai surface traditionally assists spinners as the game progresses. Teams batting first will aim for a score around 165-175 to be competitive.

Fantasy Takeaway: A balanced fantasy team with quality spinners and death over pacers is recommended. Batters who are adept at playing spin will be crucial for scoring runs in the middle overs.

Team Form & Head to-Head

Nepal

• Last 5 Matches: W, W, W, W, W
• Nepal is in exceptional form, having won all of their last five T20 matches convincingly. Their batting and bowling units are firing in unison.
• H2H Wins: 12

U.A.E.

• Last 5 Matches: L, L, L, L, L
• U.A.E. is going through a tough phase, having lost all of their last five encounters. Their batting has been a major concern.
• H2H Wins: 14 (Interestingly, U.A.E. holds a slight edge in the overall head to-head record).

Injury Updates & Player Availability

There are no major injury concerns reported from either camp. All players from both Nepal and U.A.E. are expected to be fully fit and available for selection for this warm up match.

Probable Playing XI

Nepal Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Malla, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Abinash Bohara

U.A.E. Muhammad Waseem (c), Aryansh Sharma (wk), Vriitya Aravind, Syed Haider Wasi Shah, Shoaib Khan, Aayan Afzal Khan, Basil Hameed, Ali Naseer, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Rohid, Zahoor Khan

Key Players to Watch

• Aasif Sheikh (NEP): The wicketkeeper batter is in sublime form, having scored three fifties in his last five matches. His consistency at the top of the order makes him a must have pick.
• Sandeep Lamichhane (NEP): A world class leg spinner who can single handedly change the game. He recently picked up a 5-wicket haul and will be a massive threat on the spin friendly Chennai pitch.
• Muhammad Waseem (UAE): The captain and explosive opener for U.A.E. While his team is struggling, he remains their biggest hope with the bat and can score quick runs in the powerplay.
• Junaid Siddique (UAE): The right arm pacer has been the most consistent wicket taker for his side, picking up key wickets in the death overs. He has taken 4 wickets in his last two games.

Fantasy Picks

Small League Safe Picks

• Aasif Sheikh
• Sandeep Lamichhane
• Dipendra Singh Airee
• Muhammad Waseem

Mega League Differential Picks

• Gulsan Jha (NEP): A talented all rounder who contributes with both bat and ball. His dual role gives him a high ceiling for fantasy points and he could be a game changer in Mega Leagues.
• Lalit Rajbanshi (NEP): This left arm spinner is in great form, having taken 3 wickets in a recent match. He might be overlooked in favor of Lamichhane, making him a great differential pick.
• Aryansh Sharma (UAE): He scored a fighting half century in a recent match against Ireland. If he gets going, he can provide valuable points at a lower selection percentage.

Match Prediction

Considering the current form, team balance, and momentum, Nepal is the clear favorite to win this match. Their players are in excellent touch, while U.A.E. has struggled to find any rhythm. While U.A.E. has a better head to-head record, Nepal's recent dominance makes them the stronger side.

Always check the Final Playing XI and Toss updates before locking your fantasy team.