5 PLAYERS FROM THE ASSOCIATE NATIONS WHO IMPRESSED THE MOST IN THE T20 WORLD CUP 2026

DS Airee scored 2 half-centuries and took 2 wickets for Nepal in this tournament, helping them compete and win hearts. Dipendra Singh Airee once again proved why he is Nepal's most dependable all-rounder. In a tournament where Nepal struggled for consistency...

- BY MIHIR SHARMA

The T20 World Cup 2026 has once again proven that the gap between Full Members and Associate Nations is shrinking at a rapid pace. While the traditional powerhouses dominated headlines, several players from emerging cricketing nations delivered performances that demanded respect. These were not token cameos or lucky innings. These were high-pressure, match shaping contributions against quality opposition. From record-breaking centuries to fearless chases and all-round masterclasses, Associate cricketers showed they belong on the biggest stage. Here are five players who stood out and turned the global spotlight firmly in their direction.

DIPENDRA SINGH AIREE – NEPAL'S CRISIS MANAGER AND FINISHER