In a press conference held at Tribhuwan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) unveiled its comprehensive annual calendar for the year 2024. The calendar, spanning from January 1 to December 30, strategically integrates both international and domestic cricket competitions.
CAN Secretary Paras Khadka emphasized the alignment of domestic events with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) calendars. “Efforts have been made to harmonize the organization and participation of international competitions with the conduct of national competitions,” stated Paras Khadka.
The schedule includes prominent events such as the ICC World Cup League-2, International T20 Series, and One Day Series for Nepal in 2024. The international series will feature Nepal’s senior men’s cricket, women’s cricket, and age-group teams, including U-19 and U-16 categories, along with first-class competitions.
One highlight of the calendar is the three-match one-day series between Nepal and Canada scheduled from February 10 to 14. Additionally, a tri-national T20 series involving Namibia, Netherlands, and Nepal is set to take place at TU Ground from February 27 to March 5. Moreover, Nepal’s ‘A’ team is slated to play five one-day matches and three T20 matches against Ireland ‘A’ from March 19 to April 30.
Binod Das, the team manager, revealed that considering the packed schedule, CAN is in the process of forming Nepal’s ‘A,’ T20, and one-day teams. The association has strategically planned the calendar with an eye on the upcoming T20 World Cup in America and West Indies.
The calendar encompasses 28 domestic competitions, including flagship events such as the Nepal Premier League (NPL) cricket scheduled for November, regional leagues and tournaments, departmental series, Prime Minister’s Cup, Indo-Nepal T20 Cricket, and the Mayor’s Cup.
Secretary Paras Khadka acknowledged the crucial role of financial support from the ICC, Nepal government, and sponsors in executing the ambitious domestic competition. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, aiming to gradually invite test teams to Nepal to foster a conducive environment for cricket.
( Courtesy : Gorkhapatra )
