Racist Remark During Nepal vs. Canada Cricket Match

A cricket commentator sparked controversy during a practice match between Nepal and Canada’s High-Performance team in Kathmandu on Tuesday, October 8, after allegedly making a racist remark directed at a Nepalese cricketer. The incident occurred during the third and final practice game, drawing widespread criticism from fans and cricket authorities alike.

In a video that has since circulated across social media, the commentator can be heard making an inappropriate remark while the Nepalese player was batting. Despite a fellow commentator pointing out the offensive nature of the comment, the individual persisted, even attempting to mimic the local accent. Fans speculated that the commentator, reportedly Canadian, was trying to imitate Hindi with a Nepali accent, referring to the cricketer as a "security guard" and using the phrase "Oh Sahaab Ji."

The Nepal Rhino’s Army, a fan club supporting Nepalese cricket, expressed their condemnation in a strong statement, calling on cricket administrators to address the situation. They described the commentator’s words as “disgraceful” and “unacceptable,” highlighting the racist undertones of the remark. The fan club highlighted that such behaviour has no place in sports, where respect, inclusion, and fair play are fundamental.

They further stated, "We firmly believe that sports should be a platform for unity, equality, and the celebration of diversity. It is essential that those responsible are held fully accountable, and we call for a complete investigation into this matter."

The fan club urged for immediate actions, including a public apology and education on the importance of respect and diversity in sports. They accentuated the need for measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring a respectful and welcoming environment for everyone involved in cricket.

Nepal's growing presence in international cricket has drawn large crowds, with matches often featuring packed stands. The country recently participated in a tri-series in Canada and is scheduled for a T20I series and a five-match ODI series against the United States from October 18 to November 4 in Dallas.

As Nepal continues its rise in the cricketing world, incidents like this highlight the need for vigilance against racism and discrimination in all forms, ensuring that sports remain a space for unity and respect.