In the world of cricket, Nepal has produced notable talents such as Paras Khadka, Gyanendra Malla, and Prithu Baskota who have represented the national team with distinction. However, in recent years, Kathmandu, the country’s capital, has seen a decline in its cricketing prospects, with no new players emerging to follow in the footsteps of these cricketing heroes. One of the primary reasons behind this dearth of talent is the lack of proper cricketing infrastructure and coaching opportunities within the city.
Recognizing the need for action, the local government has taken a crucial step towards reviving cricket in Kathmandu. In collaboration with the Bagmati Province Cricket Association, they have initiated a project to create a conducive playing environment by installing cricket nets in schools and wards across the city. This move is expected to provide budding cricketers with much-needed facilities to hone their skills.
However, the journey to cricketing success doesn’t end with infrastructure alone. There is a significant shortage of qualified cricket coaches in Kathmandu. As of now, there are merely 25 certified cricket coaches ranging from label 1 to 3 within the Bagmati province, a number that falls short of meeting the growing demand for coaching.
To bridge this critical gap and cultivate a new generation of cricketing talent, the Kathmandu Cricket Coach Development Programme is being launched in collaboration with the Bagmati Cricket Association. This program will offer aspiring coaches the opportunity to complete the ICC Level 0 Cricket Coach Development Programme. It aims to train 50 new cricket coaches who will then play a pivotal role in disseminating their knowledge and expertise to budding cricketers across the city.
Through initiatives like the Kathmandu Cricket Coach Development Programme, young players will have the chance to develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills—attributes that are crucial both on and off the cricket field. The program is poised to increase the talent pool, identify potential representatives at the national and international levels, and enhance the overall capacity of cricket in Kathmandu.
The collaboration between local authorities, cricket associations, and dedicated coaches underscores a collective commitment to rejuvenate the cricketing spirit in the capital. By investing in both infrastructure and coaching, the goal is to reignite the passion for cricket in Kathmandu and pave the way for the emergence of a new generation of cricket stars who will proudly represent Nepal on the world stage.
