The Nepal cricket team is ready to face Scotland in the opening match of the 13th CWC League 2 tri-series on June 2 in Dundee. This match will mark the first official game for new head coach Stuart Law.
Stuart Law Takes Charge as New Head Coach
Stuart Law was announced as Nepal’s head coach on March 28. Although he started digitally, he officially began his role on April 26 after arriving in Kathmandu on April 25. Law observed Nepal Cricket Team’s top talents during a special ‘Core Camp’ before finalizing his first squad.
Core Camp Helped Law Choose the Best 15
In the Core Camp, 52 players were divided into four teams, playing practice matches in a double round-robin format. On May 3, the number was trimmed to 25. Surprisingly, some players without central contracts made the cut, while seasoned batter Kushal Malla missed out despite a strong finish.
Kushal Malla Misses Out
Kushal Malla, once Nepal’s youngest ODI half-centurion and century-maker, couldn’t perform well at the start of the camp. He scored a solid 94 in the final match but was already out of the 25-player shortlist.
Final 15 Players Selected for Scotland Tour
On May 10, Stuart Law revealed the 15-member Nepal cricket team squad for the CWC League 2 in Scotland. Rohit Paudel will lead the team, with Dipendra Singh Airee as vice-captain. Other players include:
- Aasif Sheikh
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Anil Sah
- Gulshan Jha
- Aarif Sheikh
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Sompal Kami
- Karan KC
- Rijan Dhakal
- Lalit Rajbanshi
- Bhim Sharki
- Basir Ahamad
- Nandan Yadav
Bhim Sharki and Basir Ahamad Return
Bhim Sharki is likely to play his 29th ODI in Scotland. He had last played an ODI in September 2024. Basir Ahamad is returning after nearly three years. He has only three ODIs to his name but impressed in the core camp with his all-round performance.
Debut Chance for Nandan Yadav
Youngster Nandan Yadav could make his debut in Scotland. He took seven wickets in three matches during the core camp and earned praise for his bowling consistency.
Nepal Currently at Bottom of League Table
Nepal currently sits at the bottom of the CWC League 2 table. With just six points from 12 games, they face an uphill battle. Head coach Law aims to turn things around and target qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa.
Warm-Up Tour in UK Before Scotland Series
Before heading to Scotland, the Nepal cricket team will tour the UK. Their warm-up matches include:
- May 16: One-day match vs Cardiff University (Wales)
- May 19: Match vs MCC in Herefordshire (England)
- May 22: Two T20s vs Gloucestershire County Club
- May 26: 50-over game vs Glamorgan County Club (Wales)
Practice Games Against Scotland ‘A’
Nepal will play two practice ODIs against Scotland ‘A’ on May 29 and 31. These games will help the players get familiar with the local conditions before the official tri-series begins.
Law Confident About His Squad
“This camp allowed me to know the players better. History matters, but performance in this camp played a big role,” said Law on April 26. “There won’t be massive changes, but expect a few surprises.”
What’s Next for the Nepal Cricket Team?
After the League 2 tri-series, the Nepal cricket team will also compete in a T20I tri-series against Scotland and the Netherlands. Players Kiran Thagunna, Lokesh Bam, and Rupesh Kumar Singh will join the squad for that series.
