In preparation for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the Nepal senior men’s cricket team is set to embark on a crucial tour to India for a T20 tri-series known as the ‘Friendship Cup.’ This tournament, organized by the Board of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI), aims to bolster Nepal Cricket by providing valuable exposure and refining the team’s skills.
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) recently unveiled plans for the tri-series, which involves Nepal competing against the Baroda Cricket Association and Gujarat Cricket Association. Commencing on March 31, the tournament’s inaugural match will feature Nepal facing Gujarat, with the final scheduled for April 7.
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CAN expressed their enthusiasm for the Friendship Cup T20 tri-series through an official statement, highlighting the participation of Nepal, Gujarat, and Baroda men’s cricket teams. The event will unfold at the Sai Meghpan Sportslife (SMS) facilities in Vapi and is designed to become an annual fixture.
Mark your calendars! 🗓️ Friendship Cup T20 Tri-Series kicks off on March 31st, as Nepal, Gujarat @GCAMotera, and Baroda @cricbaroda clash in Vapi. 🔥#OneBallBattles | #NepalCricket #HappyDressingRoom | #WorldCupYear2024 pic.twitter.com/awtcy6YBap
— CAN (@CricketNep) February 19, 2024
The timing of the tri-series aligns perfectly with Nepal’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, slated for June in the US and West Indies. Having already secured qualification for the event, Nepal views the tri-series as a crucial platform to sharpen their skills and gain exposure by competing against formidable state teams affiliated with the BCCI.
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Nepal finds itself in Group D in the T20 World Cup alongside cricketing powerhouses such as Bangladesh, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands. This strategic tournament ahead of the global competition signifies Nepal’s commitment to elevating its cricketing prowess on the international stage.
T20 tri-series schedule:
- March 31: Nepal vs Gujarat
- April 1: Gujarat vs Baroda
- April 2: Nepal vs Baroda
- April 3: Nepal vs Gujarat
- April 4: Baroda vs Gujarat
- April 5: Nepal vs Baroda
- April 7: Final
