Cricket in Nepal has been on a steady rise, with the sport gaining popularity and a dedicated fan base. Despite their passion, the last few years have been challenging for Nepal’s T20 cricket team. Limited opportunities to play matches have hindered their progress, but the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 offers a chance for redemption and a platform to showcase their talents.

Nepal’s Performance in T20 Format

In the past two years, Nepal has only managed to play around 10 to 12 T20 matches annually, significantly fewer than their competitors. In 2023, they played just 6 T20 matches, and 2024 has seen them play only 4 matches so far, losing all of them. This rocky start could either be a setback or a motivator for the team to push harder and strive for better performances in the upcoming World Cup.

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Despite the challenges, Nepal has named an experienced squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The team comprises seasoned players and promising new talents, all eager to prove their worth on the global stage. Key players include explosive batters like Rohit Paudel, Kushal Malla, and Dipendra Singh Airee, who can turn matches in Nepal’s favour.

SWOT Analysis of Nepal’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad

Strengths

Nepal’s primary strength lies in its robust batting lineup. With players like Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee leading the charge, Nepal can set high targets and put pressure on the opposition. These batsmen have demonstrated their ability to score big and fast, making them key assets in the T20 format.

Weaknesses

Nepal’s bowling attack is a significant weakness. The team needs genuine pace bowlers who can consistently trouble top-order batters. The absence of key players like Sandeep Lamichhane further weakens their bowling unit, making it challenging to defend large totals.

Opportunities

The World Cup presents an opportunity for Nepal to showcase their skills and gain international recognition. Competing against strong teams like South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh will provide valuable experience and exposure. A good performance in the tournament could also boost cricket’s popularity back home and inspire future generations.

Threats

Nepal faces threats from their more experienced and formidable opponents. The teams in their group have deep, experienced squads accustomed to handling World Cup pressures. Additionally, the volatility of T20 cricket means that a single poor performance could derail their campaign.

Nepal’s Campaign Schedule

Nepal’s journey in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 begins with a match against the Netherlands on June 4 in Dallas. This is followed by a crucial encounter against Sri Lanka on June 11 in Lauderhill. The team then faces South Africa on June 14 and concludes the group stage with a match against Bangladesh on June 16, both matches in St. Vincent.

Nepal squad: Rohit Paudel (c), Aasif Sheikh, Anil Kumar Sah, Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Lalit Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Pratis GC, Sundeep Jora, Abinash Bohara, Sagar Dhakal, Kamal Singh Airee

In a significant blow to the Nepal cricket team, star leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane has been denied a US visa for the second time, just days before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

Background on Sandeep Lamichhane

Sandeep Lamichhane has been a beacon of hope and pride for Nepal cricket. Rising to prominence with his exceptional spin bowling, Lamichhane has played in various international leagues, making a name for himself as one of the most promising young talents in cricket. Recently, he was cleared of rape charges, allowing him to focus on cricket once again.

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Visa Denial Incident

Lamichhane had a visa interview scheduled for 4 pm on Thursday, May 30. Despite the efforts of Nepal’s Sports Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha and coordination with the US embassy by the Foreign Minister, Lamichhane’s visa application was rejected. This rejection means he will miss the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in the West Indies and USA from June 2 to 29.

Nepal’s T20 World Cup 2024 Campaign

Rohit Paudel will lead a young Nepal side at the marquee event. The team has been preparing diligently, with key players rewarded for their performances in the ACC Premier Cup in Oman. It matches against a West Indies A side in Kirtipur. Their first match is against the Netherlands on June 4 in Texas.

Protest In Nepal

The visa denial has sparked outrage among Nepal cricket fans. Thousands took to the streets of Kathmandu to protest against the US decision, highlighting the deep emotional and cultural connection between the fans and their cricket team. Social media has been flooded with messages of support for Lamichhane and disappointment over the visa rejection.

Nepal squad: Rohit Paudel (c), Aasif Sheikh, Anil Kumar Sah, Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Lalit Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Pratis GC, Sundeep Jora, Abinash Bohara, Sagar Dhakal, Kamal Singh Airee