The National Sports Council (NSC) has appealed for increased backing from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to bolster Nepal’s cricketing sector. This call was made during a formal meeting between NSC member-secretary Tanka Lal Ghising and ICC Chair Greg Barclay held on Tuesday.
Barclay commenced his four-day official visit to Nepal on Monday. Before his departure on March 21, Barclay is scheduled to engage in a series of visits and discussions with various cricketing stakeholders. These engagements include meetings with the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and other high-ranking government officials.
The official discussions commenced following Barclay’s meeting with Ghising at the latter’s office in Tripureshwor.
As per the NSC, the discussions between the two parties centered around Nepal’s current status and future prospects in the realm of world cricket.
“The passion for cricket in Nepal is evident. We urge the ICC to assist in arranging more international cricket matches in Nepal. Additionally, Nepal seeks ICC’s aid in establishing a high-performance training center,” stated Ghising.
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Ghising also expressed gratitude towards the ICC for entrusting Nepal with a significant responsibility: co-hosting the ICC U19 Women’s World Cup with Bangladesh in 2027.
“I have noted the support extended by the ICC to the USA and West Indies for the T20 World Cup in June. We anticipate similar assistance for the U19 Women’s World Cup,” Ghising added.
Barclay was also briefed on the advancements in cricket infrastructure, with the government undertaking the construction of three international-level stadiums – Mulpani Cricket Ground, Gautam Buddha Int’l Cricket Stadium, and Girija Prasad Koirala Cricket Stadium – as projects of national pride.
Commending Nepal’s strides in global cricket despite infrastructure challenges, Barclay assured of extending all possible support to Nepal.
“Nepal appears poised to ascend as the leading Associate member despite infrastructure limitations. The ICC remains committed to aiding Nepal in its cricketing endeavors,” remarked Barclay.
In response to Barclay’s concerns, Ghising reassured that Nepal would progress further in global cricket with increased government investment.
