The Men’s Under-19 national cricket team of Nepal had to endure heartbreak in the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup Qualifier,which concluded in Kathmandu recently.

The hosts’ dream of making it to the final round of the competition was shattered,following cancellation of their decisive match against formidable Afghanistan without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain and unplayable ground conditions.

Although both teams remained unbeaten and were tied on points,Afghanistan ended up benefiting from the situation.

The Afghan outfit was declared winners based on a higher net run rate,and they sealed the qualifying spot for the 2026 World Cup taking place in Namibia and Zimbabwe.

The excitement surrounding the high stake fixture between the undefeated sides was palpable and had reached fever pitch.

However, rain played spoilsport,bringing the highly anticipated match to an anticlimactic end, leaving everyone inconsolable,dismayed,discontent and dischanted.

The hosts and their supporters had to live with utter frustration and disappointment at the end of the day.

Home fans were left irate over the cancellation of the game.They had turned out in record numbers to rally around their team.I don’t blame them for venting their emotions.In my opinion,they were justified in their anger.

As a matter of fact, they had pinned high hopes on the team and looked forward to a famous victory against the formidable opponent.

Team Nepal’s winning chances had increased,following their victory over Afghanistan in the final game of the three match series prior to the competition.

Apart from that they had delivered a convincing and commanding performance in their three successive matches against the United Arab Emirates,Hong Kong and Oman.

They entered the crucial match against Afghanistan with high confidence and morale.They were raring to go and prepared to fight for victory, but inclement weather impeded their progress eventually.

Cricket Association of Nepal(CAN),the organizer of the tournament was optionless and had to abide by the rules and laws of the game.

As a result,they had to call off the match.In other words,they did what they were supposed to do.

Team Nepal studded with talented upcoming players must remain focused,confident,positive,committed, disciplined and stay on course going forward.

They have a long road ahead of them and must showcase exceptional individual and collective efforts to unravel success in their future endeavors.

They must set high standards for themselves.More importantly, they have to put in their heart,mind and soul into their efforts to maintain the standards all along.It will take unwavering commitment, and persistent hard work on their part.

Foremost,Nepal cricket is in desperate need of a strong,meaningful, effective and quality domestic cricket structure, coupled with robust infrastructures and facilities.Understandably,it contributes significantly in the development of players and consistently helps to streamline upcoming talented young players into the national team.

Furthermore,there is also need for standard, quality and competitive pitches and outfield to help both batters and bowlers hone their skills and develop their game.

When all is said and done,it ultimately comes down to CAN’s leadership, governance,management and competence,which has been in question for a long period of time to get things done.

By Sushil Thapa,Fairfax, VA