The Nepal national cricket team went to Gujarat for the SMS Friendship Cup T20 tri-series to prepare for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the SMS Friendship Cup is a domestic T20 series that will see Nepal compete against the Baroda Cricket Association and Gujarat Cricket Association teams. The tournament began on March 31st and concluded on April 7th, offering Nepal valuable playing time and exposure to high-quality competition.
Here is the full schedule of the SMS Friendship Cup T20 Tri-Series 2024:
1. March 31: Nepal vs. Gujarat, 1:00 PM
2. April 1: Gujarat vs. Baroda, 1:00 PM
3. April 2: Nepal vs. Baroda, 1:00 PM
4. April 3: Nepal vs. Gujarat, 1:00 PM
5. April 4: Baroda vs. Gujarat, 1:00 PM
6. April 5: Nepal vs. Baroda, 1:00 PM
7. April 7: TBC vs. TBC, 1:00 PM
Nepal’s decision to train in Gujarat was influenced by their head coach, Monty Desai, who hails from the state. Desai’s familiarity with the region’s cricket infrastructure and talent pool played a key role in the selection.
“We have a strong team with the potential to excel. Ahead of the World Cup, we wanted to face top-notch batsmen, bowlers, and fielders. The boys are enjoying their experience here, and both Baroda and Gujarat will benefit from playing an international team. It’s a win-win for everyone.” Desai told the Times of India.
Both the Baroda Cricket Association and the Gujarat Cricket Association see this as a positive development. “We are glad they chose Gujarat to prepare their team for the T20 World Cup. We have quality infrastructure as well as talented players. While the Nepal cricketers will benefit immensely from this tournament, Baroda and Gujarat boys will also learn a lot as Nepal is a competitive national side,” said Snehal Parikh, CEO of the Baroda Cricket Association.
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Looking ahead, Coach Desai envisions a long-term partnership, including annual tournaments in Gujarat and potential matches against Ranji Trophy teams.
Nepal is placed in Group D of the T20 World Cup alongside South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands. Nepal’s campaign kicks off against the Netherlands in Dallas on June 4th.
Last Updated on April 2, 2024