Nepal cricket could make a big leap by reaching T20 World Cup Super 8: Singh
Cricket Association Nepal (CAN) Vice Chair Roshan Singh highlighted that since 2022, efforts have been made to schedule matches against Test nations.
KATHMANDU: Nepal came close to a historic win in their opening match of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup in India but fell short, losing to two-time champions England by just four runs.
The narrow defeat has sparked discussions about the Nepalese team’s lack of experience against top-tier cricketing nations.
At a post-match press conference, captain Rohit Paudel and other players acknowledged the challenge of facing established cricketing powerhouses.
Rohit admitted that the team has had limited opportunities to play against Test nations, a factor that has repeatedly hindered Nepal in major tournaments.
In the previous edition of the World Cup, Nepal lost to South Africa by a single run, failing to secure a victory against a leading cricketing nation.
Despite the setback, Rohit expressed optimism about hosting teams like India, Australia, and England at the TU Cricket Stadium, welcoming the chance to play in front of home supporters.
Cricket Association Nepal (CAN) Vice Chair Roshan Singh highlighted that since 2022, efforts have been made to schedule matches against Test nations.
However, logistical challenges prevented arranging games with Sri Lanka or Afghanistan, despite positive discussions during the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka.
Singh emphasized that past international encounters, including a successful series against the West Indies last year, have strengthened the confidence of Nepalese players.
He assured that CAN will continue efforts to bring Test nations to Nepal, believing that exposure to high-level competition is key to cricket development in the country.
The vibrant support of Nepalese fans at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium also drew praise from ICC and ACC officials, further boosting the profile of Nepalese cricket.
Singh expressed hope that standout performances by Nepalese players on the global stage will open doors for them in major franchise leagues.
Looking ahead, CAN believes Nepal has the potential to make a significant impact if the team reaches the Super 8 stage.
Nepal’s Group C includes two former champions—England and West Indies—alongside Italy and Scotland. Nepal will face Italy in their second group match on Thursday, aiming to secure their first win in this edition of the tournament.
