CONSTRAINTS FAIL TO DAMPEN NEPAL SPIRIT

Associate nation made their Asia Cup debut against Pakistan a few days back and now will be up against India in Pallekele on Monday

- FIROZ MIRZA

WHEN Monty Desai joined the Cricket Association of Nepal in February as the head coach, the national team was second from bottom of the World Cup Super League points table. The challenge ahead was big - win 11 out of a possible 12 matches to secure a berth at the 50-over World Cup Qualifier in June in Zimbabwe.

Much to the surprise of everyone, they did the unthinkable; scripting a compelling success story. They might not have succeeded in qualifying for the World Cup scheduled in India in October-November during the Qualifier. But they did make history when they qualified for their maiden Asia Cup after winning the inaugural ACC Men's Premier Cup 2023 in May this year.

Having made their debut at the continental showpiece event against Pakistan the other night in Multan, Nepal are gearing up to play India at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Sri Lanka on Monday.

It's not easy for an associate nation to keep fuelling its cricketing dream. It becomes more difficult when the country is mad for the sport and yearning for recognition. Coach Desai admits the challenge but says it also motivates them to work hard and come true to people's expectations.