Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 8: England all-rounder Will Jacks showered praise on Nepal’s spirited showing after being named Player of the Match in England’s tense four-run victory in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.

Jacks played a decisive role in England’s narrow win, delivering a late surge with the bat to help his side post a competitive 184 for 7 before holding their nerve as Nepal finished agonisingly close on 180 for 6.

The England batter struck a rapid 39 off just 18 deliveries, smashing four sixes and a boundary. He also made a telling impact with the ball, conceding only 17 runs in his two overs and claiming the key wicket of Kushal Bhurtal, who had looked dangerous during the chase.

Giving full credit to the opposition, Jacks said Nepal pushed England to the brink. “All credit to Nepal. They were absolutely brilliant. We knew it was tricky when we batted, and they played against us really well. They took us right to the edge and were outstanding,” he said after the match.

Reflecting on his own innings, Jacks said simplifying his approach helped him make the most of his time at the crease. “It was nice to spend some time in the middle. I’ve not had much of that over the past month or so. I just tried to keep it simple, let the ball come on, and trust what the guys who batted before me had said about the conditions,” he explained.

Commenting on Nepal’s decision-making in the final over—particularly their choice to bowl pace—Jacks acknowledged how fine the margins can be in high-pressure situations. “It was incredibly tough. I saw them debating the options. In hindsight, they might think about it differently, but overall they were tactically very good and pushed us right to the limit,” he said.

England will next face the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in their second group match on February 11.