Nepal Reflects on Missed Opportunities in Canada and the US

Returning from their recent Triangular Series tour in Canada and the USA as part of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, the Nepali men’s cricket team arrived home Thursday. Captain Rohit Kumar Poudel described the journey as memorable yet admitted frustration over missed opportunities.

Speaking to reporters at Tribhuvan International Airport, Poudel acknowledged that the team did not meet its goals, particularly during the Canada leg. He noted that while they had started to find their form in the US, losses to the American side disrupted their momentum. “We couldn’t achieve our objectives for this tour,” he shared.

The Nepali squad played eight matches across the two countries, securing only one victory against Scotland in the US while losing five. Two additional games were canceled due to rain, granting them 2 extra points. With a potential 16 points at stake, Nepal finished the tour with only 4 points.

Reflecting on the team’s struggles, Poudel highlighted that their batting performance faltered in Canada. “Conditions in Canada were tough, but once in the US, we found our rhythm, and the players started scoring runs. Our batting unit faced challenges in Canada, which set us back,” he remarked.

When asked if the team’s intensive T20 schedule earlier in the year impacted their ODI performance, Poudel dismissed this as a reason for their struggles. “We played many T20s, but that doesn’t excuse our performance. Both formats are distinct, and we as a batting unit didn’t deliver,” he acknowledged.

Looking forward, Poudel expressed that the team’s initial setbacks in Canada and the US have intensified the challenge ahead. He recalled their success in the last League 2 cycle, stating that it’s crucial to improve now.

He noted the importance of adapting to the 50-over format, suggesting that playing two-day matches could provide valuable experience. “Our batters need more exposure to 50-over games to develop in this format,” he noted.

Consultant coach Jagat Tamata also commented on the tour, recognising the players’ efforts despite the results. He stressed that better performance is needed to achieve desired outcomes and reach new heights in future series.