We almost gunned down the mighty England team in this World Cup and that word almost carries a lot of weight. Chasing 10 runs in the final over was within reach. It echoes familiar heartbreaks: we almost toppled South Africa and Bangladesh in the previous edition, and these repeated near-misses have cost Nepal valuable tournament progress over the years.
What stands out, however, is the undeniable growth of Nepali cricket. This squad is packed with talent, backed by one of the most passionate fan bases in the sport, a combination that forms the backbone of any successful team. Our players matched England with bat, ball, and in the field. They dismissed world-class batters, attacked elite bowlers with confidence, and played with a fearlessness that commanded global respect. Nepali supporters filled the stands in Mumbai, turning the stadium into a sea of blue and red. Praise from cricket legends and analysts poured in after the match.
Yet the result leaves a lingering sense of what could have been. That single game held the potential to redefine our campaign. The gap between competing bravely and finishing the job often comes down to psychological resilience, the ability to stay calm and clinical in the decisive moments. For Nepal, building that mental edge is the next frontier.
And that edge can only come from sustained exposure at the highest level. Nepal has long dominated the associate circle, but to evolve into a genuine force in world cricket, regular competition against top-tier teams is essential. Frequent high-pressure matches sharpen decision-making, strengthen belief, and normalize the intensity of elite cricket.
There is also a broader conversation for the sport’s governing bodies. Teams like Nepal represent pure, home-grown cricketing ecosystems, built largely on local talent and grassroots passion. Providing structured opportunities and consistent international fixtures for emerging nations is not charity, it is a necessary investment in the global growth of the game.
Regardless of yesterday’s result, we fans have every reason to be proud. The team played with heart, courage, and ambition. They reminded the world and perhaps themselves that Nepal belongs on this stage. And as supporters, we celebrate not just the performance, but the promise it carries for the future.