Nepal’s debut in Asia Cup 2023 begins against Pakistan on August 30 (Wednesday). Placed in Group A alongside India and Pakistan, Nepal has achieved a historic feat in international cricket by making it to the tournament. The leadership role for Nepal is held by Rohit Paudel, who also captains the team in ODIs. Despite facing cricket giants India and Pakistan, Nepal aims to deliver a strong performance. This article provides insights into Nepal’s squad for the Asia Cup 2023.
Team Overview
The Nepal squad is a young one, with an average age of 22 years old. However, they have some talented players who are capable of causing upsets. The batting is led by Kushal Bhurtel, who is a stylish left-handed opener. He is known for his ability to score runs quickly and he will be looking to provide a good start to the Nepal innings. Aasif Sheikh is another important member of the batting lineup. He is a wicket-keeper batsman who is known for his ability to play spin well.
The bowling attack is led by Sandeep Lamichhane, who is one of the best leg-spinners in the world. He is known for his ability to take wickets in all conditions and he will be a key player for Nepal in the Asia Cup. Sompal Kami is another important bowler in the Nepal squad. He is a right-arm fast bowler who is known for his ability to swing the ball.
Key Players in Nepal Squad for Asia Cup 2023
These are just a few of Nepal’s key players for the Asia Cup in 2023. With a solid lineup that balances bowling and batting, Nepal will be among the favourites to win the competition.
Openers – Kushal Bhurtel & Aasif Sheikh (WK)
In terms of the opening combination for Asia Cup 2023, it’s anticipated that Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh will form the pair. In the ongoing year, Bhurtel has showcased impressive form with the bat, accumulating 544 runs across 19 ODIs, including a century and three half-centuries. He stands as the top run-scorer for the team.
Aasif Sheikh, functioning as a wicketkeeper, stands as a potential partner for the opening role. In his 18 matches, he has gathered a total of 532 runs, maintaining an average of 33.25. Throughout the year, he has registered four fifties and one century to his name.
Middle – Order – Rohit Paudel (C), Bhim Sarki, Aarif Sheikh
Within the heart of the batting lineup, three potential candidates to secure a spot in Nepal’s squad for Asia Cup 2023 emerge Rohit Paudel, Bhim Sarki, and Aarif Sheikh. Paudel has demonstrated his batting prowess by amassing 524 runs across 20 matches, highlighted by three half-centuries. Bhim Sarki contributes significantly with 409 runs in 14 games, also featuring three half-centuries. Aarif Sheikh’s contribution amounts to 296 runs in 15 ODIs, maintaining a commendable average of 26.90.
Wicket-Keepers – Arjun Saud
Apart from Aasif Sheikh, Arjun Saud presents another wicketkeeping option for Nepal’s inclusion in the Asia Cup 2023. Arjun Saud has participated in two ODIs during this year, displaying a remarkable performance with a notable 48-run innings in one of the matches.
Nepal’s Squad for Asia Cup 2023
| Captain: Rohit Paudel |
| Vice-captain: Sompal Kami |
| Batsmen: |
| Kushal Bhurtel |
| Aasif Sheikh (wicket-keeper) |
| Bhim Sharki |
| Dipendra Singh Airee |
| Aarif Sheikh |
| Sundeep Jora |
| All-rounders: |
| Karan KC |
| Sandeep Lamichhane |
| Lalit Rajbanshi |
| Bowlers: |
| Gulshan Jha |
| Sompal Kami |
| Pratis GC |
| Shyam Dhakal |
| Sundeep Jora |
| Arjun Saud |
Is Sandeep Lamichhane Not Going to Pakistan with Team for Asia Cup?
Sandeep Lamichhane will not be joining the Nepali national cricket team in Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023. He has cited personal reasons for his decision. Lamichhane was included in the 17-member Nepal squad for the Asia Cup, but he has asked the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) for permission to skip the tournament. CAN has granted his request.
Read More: Key Players to Watch: Bangladesh Squad for Asia Cup
FAQs
When will the Asia Cup 2023 be held?
The Asia Cup 2023 will be held from August 27 to September 11, 2023.
Where will the Asia Cup 2023 be held?
The Asia Cup 2023 will be held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The first four matches will be played in Pakistan, while the remaining matches will be played in Sri Lanka.
Who are the most successful teams in the Asia Cup?
India is the most successful team in the Asia Cup, having won the tournament a record 13 times. Pakistan is the second most successful team, having won the tournament 7 times. Sri Lanka has won the tournament 5 times, while Bangladesh has won the tournament once.
Wrapping it Up!
To conclude, Nepal’s debut in the Asia Cup 2023 marks a historic milestone in their cricketing journey. Set to face off against cricket powerhouses Pakistan and India in Group A, Nepal’s qualification for the tournament signifies a significant achievement in international cricket. Led by the capable captaincy of Rohit Paudel, the team aims to leave their mark despite the challenges posed by the formidable opponents.
