T20 World Cup 2026 Group C Analysis: With Bangladesh Gone, Can Nepal or Scotland Shock the World?

The T20 World Cup 2026 Group C lineup has officially changed after the Bangladesh National Cricket Team was replaced by Scotland in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to kick off on February 7 in Mumbai. While the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) cited security concerns, many fans believe this was largely a political decision by their interim government.

With Bangladesh out, the dynamics of Group C have completely changed. The new lineup is: England, Italy, Nepal, Scotland, and West Indies.

Here is my honest analysis and ranking of the teams, from the bottom to the top.

No. 5: Italy (The Underdogs)

I believe Italy has the lowest chance of qualifying for the Super 8, as this marks their maiden T20 World Cup appearance. However, they are a fascinating team.

They are captained by Wayne Madsen, a veteran athlete who is not just a cricketer but also a former hockey player who represented South Africa in the 2006 Hockey World Cup. While Italy doesn’t have much to lose, a single win against a giant would be a historic accomplishment for them.

• Prediction: They won their warm-up match against Canada by 10 runs, which is impressive. However, against giants like England and West Indies, they will likely struggle. I am ranking them at No. 5.

No. 4: Nepal (The Asian Hope)

Nepal is the only Asian nation left in this group. While they have shown massive improvement recently, I feel they are still one step away from being a “Top Two” team.

The squad is led by Rohit Paudel, a solid batting all-rounder. The X-Factor, of course, is their star spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. His vast experience in global leagues, especially his time with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL, adds serious strength to their bowling attack.

• The Path to Super 8: Nepal can reach the next round, but the math is hard. They must defeat Scotland and Italy, and then pull off a miracle upset against West Indies or England.
• Prediction: Although Nepal defeated West Indies in a T20 series last year (2025), a World Cup is a different ball game. I am placing them at No. 4, but they are the ones to watch.

No. 3: Scotland (The Lucky Entry)

Scotland won a lottery when they replaced Bangladesh. They were the highest-ranked team that hadn’t qualified, so they got the golden ticket.

However, this is a double-edged sword. It would have been much better if they had more time to prepare mentally and physically. This is their 6th T20 World Cup appearance (last seen in 2022), but they were called in at the very last minute.

• Prediction: They have a golden opportunity to prove themselves, but without proper camp time, I think they will finish mid-table at No. 3.

No. 2: West Indies (The Sleeping Giants)

I am placing the West Indies in the 2nd position, simply out of respect for their legacy and raw power.

Yes, they have seen a “downfall” recently, losing series against Afghanistan and South Africa. But you cannot write them off. Captain Shai Hope brings necessary consistency, while power hitters like Shimron Hetmyer and Johnson Charles can destroy any bowling attack on their day.

• Prediction: Even though they lost their warm-up match, the West Indies usually wake up when the tournament actually starts. They should do enough to qualify.

No. 1: England (The Hot Favorites)

England is arguably the strongest team in Group C. Having won the T20 World Cup twice, they know exactly how to navigate these tournaments.

The team is led by Harry Brook and is packed with superstars. Jos Buttler is the key man here—his ability to dominate in Indian conditions (thanks to his IPL experience) makes him dangerous. Add the pace of Jofra Archer, and England looks nearly unbeatable in this group.

• Verdict: In T20 cricket, anything is possible. But a team with this much successful power-hitting and fielding depth has a massive edge. England is my clear pick for the No. 1 spot.