In a thrilling start to the T20 World Cup, England faced a strong challenge from Nepal in their opening match, which nearly resulted in a shocking defeat for the former champions. England set a competitive target of 184 runs, with notable contributions from Jacob Bethell, who scored 55 runs, and Will Jacks, who added 39 runs in a dynamic finish to their innings. Their performance seemed secure as they took crucial wickets to contain Nepal's scoring efforts.

However, the match took an exhilarating turn when Lokesh Bam unleashed a fierce attack, particularly targeting Jofra Archer with multiple sixes, which nearly turned the tide in favor of Nepal. As the match progressed towards the final over, tension mounted with Sam Curran tasked with defending ten runs. In a display of composure under pressure, Curran executed precise yorkers, allowing only five runs, ultimately ensuring England's survival in what could have been a major upset.

The match showcased the growing competitiveness in associate nations like Nepal, whose spirited performance drew considerable support from fans in Mumbai. The near-miss of victory for Nepal highlights not only their potential but also serves as a reminder for established teams like England about the unpredictability of T20 cricket and the caliber of their opponents, making future matches an exciting prospect for the tournament.