The Embassy of Pakistan in Kathmandu hosted the inaugural ceremony of the 10th Edition of the Pakistan-Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament 2025. The event, a symbol of growing sports diplomacy between the two nations, commenced with an official inauguration by Subarna Shrestha, Executive Board Member of the National Sports Council. She lauded the Embassy’s continued efforts in organizing the annual tournament and emphasized how cricket fosters strong bonds between the youth of both countries.
The opening ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries, including Chaturananda Baidhya, Vice President of the Nepal Olympic Committee, C.P. Mainali, former Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal, Binaya Raj Pandey, former President of the Cricket Association of Nepal, Yubanath Lamsal, former Ambassador of Nepal to Denmark, Manju Ratna Shakya, Chairman of the Nepal-Pakistan Friendship and Cultural Association, and Suman Pokharel, Deputy CEO of Global IME Bank Ltd. Prominent figures from various sectors, along with media representatives, were also in attendance.
Cricket as a Unifying Force
Addressing the audience, Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, Abrar H. Hashmi, emphasized that cricket is more than just a sport—it serves as a bridge connecting people and fostering a spirit of camaraderie and teamwork. He extended his best wishes to all participating teams and expressed gratitude to the esteemed guests for their unwavering support. The ambassador also commended the efforts of the organizing committee in making the tournament a success.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Hashmi launched the Nepal-Pakistan Youth Council, aiming to strengthen youth engagement between the two nations. Additionally, he welcomed the Pakistan Shooting Ball Team, congratulating them for securing the runner-up position in the recently concluded Asian Shooting Ball Championship held in Kathmandu.
Tournament Highlights
This year’s tournament features twelve club-level cricket teams competing over nine days, with the final scheduled for February 16, 2025. The closing event will include a trophy and awards distribution ceremony. Cricket enthusiasts can watch the live telecast of the matches on the Nepalese sports channel “Action Sports” and various social media platforms.
The Pakistan-Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament continues to serve as a vital platform for strengthening people-to-people ties and enhancing sports relations between the two neighboring nations.
