T20 World Cup trophy arrives in Nepal

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Jan. 6: The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup trophy has arrived in Nepal for a three-day tour. President Ramchandra Paudel and national team captain Rohit Kumar Paudel jointly unveiled the trophy at a special ceremony held at the Presidential Residence, Sheetal Niwas, on Monday.

The event was attended by Cricket Association of Nepal president Chatur Bahadur Chand, national men’s team coach Stuart Law, national women’s team captain Indu Barma, vice-captain Puja Mahato, and coach Harshal Patel.

Speaking at the unveiling, President Paudel described the arrival of the trophy in Nepal as a proud moment for the nation. He said the occasion sends a message worldwide that Nepal is emerging as a centre of 

global cricket.

“Nepal is now firmly establishing itself as a sports-loving nation. Cricket has played an important role in uniting the country. With its professional growth, the sport is also strengthening the foundation for a bright future for Nepali youth,” he remarked.

The President highlighted the gradual development of infrastructure and opportunities as a positive sign for Nepal’s sporting sector. He thanked the International Cricket Council (ICC) for bringing the trophy to Nepal, noting that it has boosted the confidence of Nepali cricket and its supporters.

“May Nepal’s cricket reach greater heights, and may our players succeed in raising the nation’s pride on the world stage,” he added.

President Paudel also extended best wishes to both the men’s and women’s national teams. The Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier is set to be staged in Nepal.

Earlier, the ODI World Cup Trophy also made Nepal tour.

Nepal’s senior men’s team will compete in the T20 World Cup for the third time. The global event will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Nepal has been drawn in Group D alongside England, Bangladesh, West Indies and Italy, with all of Nepal’s matches scheduled to be played in Mumbai. 

The trophy will remain in Nepal for three days. On 6 January, it will travel to Pokhara before being showcased at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu. On 7 January, it will be exhibited at Baudha Nath Stupa.

Meanwhile, the official T20 World Cup jerseys of Nepal’s men’s and women’s teams were unveiled in Kathmandu. During the launch, Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket honoured both squads. The jerseys, available in three editions including a fan version, will be sold at Bhat-Bhateni outlets and through its online store.