We’ll win next tourney, PM tells women’s volleyball team

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Aug. 20: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli spent around two hours in the morning of Raksha Bandhan with the Nepal Women’s National Volleyball team.

Prime Minister Oli, along with the volleyball coach and players, discussed the sport’s achievements so far, the need for further development of infrastructure, and strategies to secure Nepal’s victory in upcoming international games.

Sports leaders, the coach, and players expressed their excitement at having the opportunity to meet the country’s executive head for the first time over breakfast at the Prime Minister’s official residence in Baluwatar.

The meeting was attended by the team’s chief coach Jagdish Bhatta, captain Aruna Shahi, Nepal Volleyball Association president Jitendra Chand, player Saraswoti Chaudhary, and others.

Prime Minister Oli mentioned that although he wanted to attend the Cava Women’s Volleyball Nations League held two weeks ago, he was unable to do so due to an emergency meeting of the Council of Ministers. 

However, he assured that he is aware of the team’s progress, as well as the wishes and demands of the players.

Prime Minister Oli announced that the Nepal government has decided to provide Rs. 300,000 to the players who were runners-up in the competition, and the players expressed their gratitude for the support.

He also expressed his commitment to constructing an international-level covered hall in response to the region’s demand.

He added, “The government doesn’t have a lot of funds in the state coffers, but we will ensure that necessary things are done.”

“We shall win the next tournament. Let your morale make it a reality,” he said. “We play games to win, so stay focused and expect victory. Success will surely follow.”

Prime Minister Oli recalled that last month, during a meeting with him, the Russian women’s volleyball players praised the Nepali team.

He said that the Nepali team’s potential was reflected in the praise from world-class players.