The enthusiasm of Nepali cricket enthusiasts was a standout feature of the T20 World Cup 2024. Despite Rohit Paudel’s team being eliminated, their supporters remained unwaveringly loyal. They turned out in large numbers to rally behind their team, rejoicing in their successes and sharing in their disappointments. While failing to win any matches in the tournament was a bitter disappointment, Paudel and his squad were buoyed by the continuous support and affection they received throughout their journey.
In a notable incident of fan fervor, during Nepal’s final League Stage match against Bangladesh in Kingstown, a supporter became so caught up in the moment that they leaped into a nearby swimming pool. This display of exuberance was triggered by Captain Paudel’s pivotal dismissal of Towhid Hridoy in the last over of the Powerplay.
Hridoy attempted a sweep shot but was deceived by the bounce on Paudel’s delivery. The ball soared into the air, only to be safely caught by Sandeep Lamichhane, sending Hridoy back to the pavilion. With Bangladesh losing four wickets in just six overs, Nepali fans were jubilant. Amidst this celebration, one ecstatic supporter celebrated by diving into the pool, proudly waving the Nepali national flag.
However, the euphoria quickly faded as Nepal suffered a defeat at Arnos Vale Stadium. Despite bowling out Bangladesh for 106 runs, Paudel’s team stumbled in their own innings. Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Mustafizur Rahman combined to take seven wickets, restricting Nepal to a total of just 85 runs.
Nepal had appeared promising at 78 for 5 at one point, but collapsed dramatically, losing their last five wickets for a mere seven runs. Bangladesh, spurred by their disappointment in batting, rallied with experience to clinch the victory.
Bangladesh seemed poised for victory when Nepal struggled at 26 for 5 after seven overs, courtesy of Tanzim’s skillful bowling. However, Kushal Malla (27) and Dipendra Singh Airee (25), who holds a world record, put on a partnership of 52 runs, briefly igniting hopes of a historic win for Nepal.
Sadly, Nepal will be heading home from the T20 World Cup without a single win to their name. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will advance to the Super Eight stage in the Caribbean, buoyed by their victory.
