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Nepal lost the Asia Cup game against India and Pakistan, but there were many positive takeaways. The exposure, experience and attention that Nepali side got in the tournament was our achievement. 

From losing a game against the Kenyan national team last year to playing against cricket giants and putting up a respectable fight, this team has grown a lot.

Former President of Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) Binay Raj Pandey said that Nepal’s performance is something to be proud of. “It was good to see Nepal play against India, after 20 years the dream has come true. All Nepalis are proud of Nepal’s performance against India and Pakistan," he wrote on Facebook.

Nepali cricket commentator Sachin Timalsena said that the foundation was laid when the Nepali team played against India. He took to X and said, “It takes time, this was the beginning. The foundation is laid, now to add to it. Well done Nepal”'

Nepal’s triumph in the ACC Men’s Premier Cup, 2023, where they competed against 10 teams and ultimately defeated UAE in the final, stands out as a memorable achievement. It also helped Nepal gain its spot at the Asia Cup 2023.

Reflecting on this success, Monty Desai, Nepal’s head coach, told journalists: “I can never forget the day when we clinched the finals and secured our spot in the Asia Cup. It was a very dramatic two days of finals. What excited me most about playing in the Asia Cup was the way we won the final. It was the result of hard work, meticulous planning, flawless execution of roles, and the risks we took.”

However, the journey leading up to the Asia Cup was far from straightforward.

From Division 5 to ODI status in eight years

In 2010, Nepal hosted the ICC World Cricket League Division 5 tournament, which they won, earning them a promotion to Division 4. Two years later, in 2012, Nepal triumphed in the ICC World Cricket League Division 4 tournament, securing a promotion to Division 3. Nepal’s cricket journey continued on an upward trajectory, with another victory in the 2014 ICC World Cricket League Division 3, earning them promotion to Division 2. Unfortunately, due to a drop in performance, Nepal faced relegation back to Division 3 but persevered to return to Division 2.

The turning point came in the 13th match of the ICC World Cricket League Division 2 in 2018. Nepal and Canada battled it out. The stakes were high as both teams aimed to secure a spot in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers. Initially, Canada appeared to have the advantage, but a pivotal moment occurred when Nepal’s final batting pair displayed incredible resilience, forging a crucial partnership that carried Nepal to victory. At that moment, optimism soared, marking a potential turning point for Nepal. It’s worth noting that the rise of young cricketers played a significant role in Nepal’s success, ultimately leading to their recognition as an ODI nation, a remarkable achievement.

During this period, the International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended the CAN in April 2016 due to concerns about the dual existence of cricket governing bodies in Nepal and government interference in elections. The ban was lifted in Oct 2019. Meanwhile, Nepali cricketers faced dire financial circumstances, with minimal income. The day after the ICC lifted the CAN ban, longtime skipper Paras Khadka, who had led the team for a decade since 2009 and one of the country’s most successful cricketers, resigned from his captaincy role.

Speaking to journalists, Khadka said: “The team had experienced numerous highs and lows during a period of three years without institutional guardianship.As the CAN has new leadership, a fresh start in Nepali cricket is necessary.”

When did cricket start in Nepal?

Nepal’s national cricket team that took part in their inaugural international competition back in 1996.

Cricket found its way to Nepal through the influence of the Rana aristocracy, who received their education from the British Empire in India. In 1946, the Cricket Association of Nepal was established.

By 1961, the association had become a part of the National Sports Council within the Ministry of Sports, and it embarked on a mission to promote cricket throughout every nook and corner of Nepal. It was in 1988 that Nepal achieved affiliate membership status with the ICC, although cricket was primarily confined to the Kathmandu valley during that period.

Nepal made its debut in international cricket in 1996 when they faced Bangladesh in the ACC Trophy. Since then, they have consistently performed well in the Associate cricket circuit. Notably, they achieved victories over Pakistan and Bangladesh in the 2002 Under-19 World Cup and secured the plate championship in the 2006 Under-19 World Cup, defeating formidable opponents like New Zealand and South Africa.

A significant milestone for Nepal came in 2014 when they qualified for the ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh. During the tournament, they even registered wins against Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Nearly a decade later, their entry into the Asia Cup marked another significant achievement.

While many have played pivotal roles in Nepal cricket, two standout figures are Roy Dias and Pubudu Dassanayake. Dias coached the team for nearly nine years, during which Nepal finished as runners-up in the 2002 ACC Trophy and won the ACC Fast Track Countries Tournament in 2006. 

The former skipper Khadka acknowledges the guidance of Coach Dassanayake. “We knew there were significant opportunities ahead of us, but we didn’t know the exact path to take. Coach Dassanayake came and showed us the way.” Under Dassanayake, Nepal progressed from Division 4 to Division 2, marking an era of remarkable growth in their cricketing journey.

Former Nepali skipper Paras Khadka with his teammates, before the match that gave Nepal ODI status.

Passionate fans

Nepal’s dedicated fans have served as an unwavering support system for their cricket team, accompanying them through all the highs and lows of their journey. The image above vividly illustrates the immense passion that every Nepali cricket fan holds for the game, making it a truly captivating sight.

Pictures of Nepali supporters perched in trees while watching the games showcase the extraordinary lengths to which these fans go to support their team.

Cricket commentator and analyst Aakash Chopra wrote on X : “India must adopt Nepal cricket and make it their responsibility to bring them up to speed with international cricket. Send the A team to Nepal. Involve them in India’s domestic structure. The passion for cricket in Nepal is unparalleled… and they have the potential too.”

Former skipper Khadka once said that Nepali batsmen struggled with pacers as they had never gone with cricket giants and faced bowling with 145+ kmph speed. “But with the unbelievable talent and hard work, we started facing them easily,” he said. “If we get a bit of support from other cricket playing nations then we will see many cricketers shining on the world stage. We just need the best platform for our players,” he said.  

Desai’s vision

Coach Desai has been orchestrating the ‘Happy Dressing Room’ initiative with the aim of fostering unity among the Nepali team. As part of this program, he presents medals within the dressing room to commend the outstanding performance of players following the game.

A similar occurrence took place following the match against India. Desai extended an invitation to the Indian players, inviting them into Nepal’s dressing room to honor the Nepali players who had performed exceptionally well in the match against India.

In a video released by the CAN, Sompal Kami from Nepal can be seen receiving a medal from the Indian all-rounder, Hardik Pandya. Also, Desai requested Indian batsman Virat Kohli to bestow a medal upon Aasif Sheikh, who had scored a half-century against India. The video also captures Indian coach Rahul Dravid presenting a medal to Dipendra Singh Airee. These gestures definitely motivate the team.

Coach Desai also shares a similar perspective with former skipper Khadka and analyst Chopra. Upon his arrival in Nepal, he advocated for Nepal’s participation in India’s domestic cricket tournaments, particularly the Ranji Trophy. He expressed his intent to encourage the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to support Nepal’s cricket growth. 

Desai says “Just as neighboring countries like Scotland and Ireland are allowed to compete in England, Nepal should also be granted a similar opportunity.” “This step could potentially pave the way for Nepal to attain Test-playing nation status within the next four years.”

“Most of our players are in the age range of 20 to 25. I believe we’ve pinpointed a central nucleus of talent that will contribute to the team’s success over the next four years. There may be a need to fine-tune one or two positions as we progress, but overall, I’m confident that this core group is a valuable asset for the national team and the entire nation,” Desai says.

Better Than The Movies

Lynn Painter

Romance | Young Adult

Perpetual daydreamer Liz Buxbaum gave her heart to Michael a long time ago. But her cool, aloof forever crush never really saw her before he moved away. Now that he’s back in town, Liz will do whatever it takes to get on his radar. Wes has only been a pain in Liz’s butt since they were kids. Pranks involving frogs and decapitated lawn gnomes do not make a potential boyfriend. Yet, somehow, Wes and Michael are hitting it off, which means Wes is Liz’s in.

But as Liz and Wes scheme to get Liz noticed by Michael so she can have her magical prom moment, she’s shocked to discover that she likes being around Wes. And as they continue to grow closer, she must re-examine everything she thought she knew about love – and rethink her own ideas of what happily ever after should look like. 

Kathmandu Dilemma: Resetting India-Nepal Ties

Ranjit Rae

Non-Fiction | Politics

The first two decades of the new millennium have witnessed a dramatic socio-political transformation in Nepal. A violent Maoist insurgency ended peacefully, a new constitution abolished the monarchy and established a secular federal democratic republic. Nevertheless, political stability and a peace dividend have both remained elusive. Nepal is also buffeted by changing geopolitics, including the US-China contest for influence and the uneasy relationship between India and China. As a close neighbor, India has been deeply associated with the seminal changes in Nepal, and the bilateral relationship has seen many twists and turns. Partly a memoir, this book examines India’s perspective on these developments, in the context of the civilizational and economic underpinnings of the India-Nepal relationship, as well as issues that continue to prevent this relationship from exploiting its full potential.           

Know My Name

Chanel Miller

Memoir | Feminism

She was known to the world as Emily Doe when she stunned millions with a letter. Brock Turner had been sentenced to just six months in county jail after he was found sexually assaulting her on Stanford’s campus. Her victim impact statement was posted on BuzzFeed, where it instantly went viral. Thousands wrote to say that she had given them the courage to share their own experiences of assault for the first time. This is her story of trauma, transcendence, and the power of words. Her story illuminates a culture biased to protect perpetrators, indicts a criminal justice system designed to fail the most vulnerable, and, ultimately, shines with the courage required to move through suffering and live a full and beautiful life. Know My Name will forever transform the way we think about sexual assault, challenging our beliefs about what is acceptable.

A good tune can brighten up a gloomy day. It can make you forget your worries, albeit for a little while, which is sometimes all you really need to get back at it again. Evana Manandhar from ApEx talked to three youths to find out the importance of music in their lives. In the process, we delve into its multifaceted nature, its impact on our lives, and its profound influence on our emotions and behaviors.

Bishal Manandhar, Engineering student

Music has been an unwavering lifeline, a steadfast companion during my darkest moments. It’s been a warm embrace when I’ve felt really low. During those times when happiness was elusive, music emerged as a subtle motivator, infusing me with renewed energy and resolve. My playlist of cherished tunes is perhaps my most loyal friend, accompanying me in the solitude of my showers and infusing those intimate moments with a sense of comfort and familiarity. During grueling gym sessions, music serves as a beacon of motivation, pushing me to break through my physical and emotional barriers. In moments of isolation, when I have felt disconnected from the world, music has been my silent confidant. You can say that music reminds me of life’s beauty, even in the face of adversity. 

Rastrika Shakya, Fashion designer

Music is an ever-present and cherished companion. It’s a potent stress reliever and a distraction that brings positivity and tranquility. It often whisks me away from life’s worries, offering relaxation, sharpened focus, and an instant mood lift. Whenever I’m sad, music helps elevate my spirits. Whether it’s tackling household chores or preparing for the day ahead, music is a compulsory part of my routine, infusing each task with rhythm and joy.

Music transcends mere sound. I believe it embodies emotions that resonate with everyone. It makes everything seem bearable and cheers me up. I’d say music is not just a collection of notes but it’s actually a powerful emotion that enriches our lives. 

Suprekshya Pant, Law student

I’ve noticed a significant shift in my music-listening habits since moving to Australia from Nepal. Back in Nepal, music was primarily reserved for bedtime or shower time, providing a soothing end to the day. But now music has become a constant companion, woven seamlessly into my daily routine. I listen to music during my commute, at work, and while doing chores like cleaning the house, doing laundry, and washing dishes. It has evolved from a nighttime ritual to an essential part of my day-to-day life. This transformation is more than just a change in habit. It’s become a source of solace and respite amidst the demands of work and study. Music, with its ability to calm the mind and provide moments of peace, has become a vital thread in the fabric of my life in Australia, offering comfort and balance in the midst of a bustling and busy new environment.

Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah sent shockwaves this week when he ominously threatened to set Singha Durbar ablaze. This fiery outburst followed a confrontation between traffic police and a government vehicle carrying his spouse. After facing widespread backlash, Shah deleted his incendiary social media post and offered a somewhat begrudging apology.

Yet, amidst the chaos, a surprising faction of the population, predominantly composed of impassioned youth, rallied behind his violent online rhetoric to channel their frustration. In another corner of Nepal, Harka Sampang, the mayor of Dharan Municipality, irresponsibly stoked tensions between two religious communities. Instead of acting as a unifying leader, Sampang was accused of taking sides, exacerbating the conflict. 

The precarious state of security in the nation became apparent when an individual armed with a Khukuri attacked Nepali Congress leader Mahendra Yadav on Wednesday. These developments are undeniably troubling.

Frustration has been simmering in society due to the underperformance of mainstream political parties, and leaders like Shah and Sampang, who wield power, are making inflammatory statements that could ignite societal unrest. At this juncture, it becomes imperative for society to subject figures like Shah and Sampang to heightened scrutiny. Their pro-people initiatives are praiseworthy, but their use of online platforms to incite violence must be condemned. Meanwhile the government and mainstream political parties appear deaf to the economic and societal issues plaguing the nation.

Rampant corruption scandals have besmirched the reputation of politicians and traditional political entities, yet they persist in safeguarding their personal and party interests, further stoking public frustration.

Experts say that the recent incident in Dharan should serve as a stark wakeup call for both the state and political parties. It hints at the potential for communal tensions, as certain elements seem to be systematically sowing discord in an otherwise harmonious society. Any communal strife could pose a 

significant threat to national security. 

Regrettably, some of our leaders are exacerbating the situation rather than working to quell it. The nation’s economic crisis is spiraling into a disconcerting abyss. Despite some positive indicators in the external sector, such as increased remittances and a slight uptick in tourism, economic distress is worsening by the day. Foreign direct investment is declining, as is foreign assistance. Business owners are reluctant to secure loans from banks, partly due to discouraging government policies, leading to a troubling trend of capital flight.

Disturbing reports emerged from Janakpur this Wednesday, revealing that over 50 percent of small businesses have shuttered due to the economic slowdown. This crisis extends beyond media headlines; every business, industry, and enterprise is suffering. 

Job creation remains a distant dream, with around 2,000 youths departing for foreign shores every day, either as students or workers. Conversations with college students reveal deep disillusionment about their career prospects and future, with emigration becoming the only viable path toward a better life.

Society is grappling with more profound challenges than our political and policy-makers might assume. Lower-income individuals who entrusted their savings to cooperatives find themselves losing hope of recovering their deposits. They take to the streets in protest, while government promises to refund their money remain confined to paper. Despite legislative measures, the menace of loan sharks continues to prey on vulnerable communities.

Incomes are plummeting, while the prices of essential commodities are skyrocketing, with economists warning of potential inflation. People are poised to endure even greater hardships. Additionally, climate change has ushered in prolonged droughts in the Madhes region, resulting in crop failures that threaten food security. 

India has imposed taxes on rice and other grains and halted the export of certain food items, exacerbating the looming food crisis. Farmers, already grappling with the loss of thousands of cattle due to lumpy skin disease, received government vaccines too late to avert disaster.

As our nation weakens, foreign powers intensify their efforts to gain influence in Nepal, with the tremors of great-power rivalry palpable in Kathmandu. While politicians may perceive calm on the surface, this tranquility may be the prelude to a storm. It is high time for the government and politicians to rouse themselves and address these pressing issues before they erupt into something far more volatile.

Points to ponder

• Violent communication by Balen and Sampang
• Shaky social harmony  
• People’s deposits in cooperatives are not safe
• The issue of loan shark remains
• Farmers are in distress due to diseases and climate change
• Food insecurity looms
• Businesspersons are in panic
• Money is piling in the bank
• Foreign meddling is increasing
• Inflation is going up, people are in distress
• Capital flight unabated 
• Youths are leaving the country