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The excitement is palpable as the Nepalese U19 Cricket Team embarks on its journey to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to compete in the highly anticipated 2023 U19 Asia Cup. Originally slated to be held in Pakistan, the tournament has shifted its venue to the UAE.
Pic From: CANA farewell program organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) in Kathmandu saw the presence of key figures such as CAN President Chatur Bahadur Chand, Secretary Paras Khadka, and Sports Minister Dig Bahadur Limbu. The team earned its spot in the Asia Cup after clinching the title of the ACC U19 Premier Cup, with UAE and Japan also securing their places by finishing second and third, respectively.
The tournament, scheduled to take place from December 8 to 17, will feature eight nations, with Nepal placed in Group A alongside cricket powerhouses India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Group B comprises Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Japan, and host nation UAE.
In their inaugural match on December 8, Nepal is set to face off against Pakistan, followed by clashes against Afghanistan on December 10 and India on December 12. Skipper Dev Khanal expressed confidence in the team's thorough preparation, emphasizing the goal to maintain positive momentum, much like their senior counterparts.
Head Coach Jagat Tamata highlighted the team's eagerness to take on formidable opponents like India and Pakistan, underscoring the rigorous efforts invested in their preparations. The squad underwent a few changes post the ACC U-19 Premier Cup, with the return of Gulshan Jha, previously engaged in national team duties. Spinner Tilak Bhandari and wicketkeeper Bipin Rawal have also been included, while some players, including left-arm pacer Durgesh Gupta, Dipak Bohara, and Milan Bohara, did not make the final cut.
The chosen squad comprises Dev Khanal (c), Dipesh Kandel, Gulshan Jha, Hemant Dhami, Subash Bhandari, Aakash Tripathi, Arjun Kumal, Deepak Bohara, Uttam Thapa Magar, Dipak Dumre, Aakash Chand, Bishal KC, Tilak Raj Bhandari, and Bipin Rawal.