Paras Khadka’s Vision: Elevating Nepal Cricket on the Global Stage with NPL & Grassroots Growth
20th July 2025, Kathmandu
At the prestigious ICC Annual Conference, Paras Khadka, Secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and former national team captain, delivered a compelling presentation, spotlighting the transformative impact of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) and CAN’s strategic initiatives to position Nepal as a formidable cricketing powerhouse.
A Landmark Moment for Nepal Cricket Globally
In a room comprising leading figures in international cricket governance, Khadka, an icon of Nepali cricket, articulated a powerful message of hope, resilience, and ambition. His address underscored Nepal’s remarkable cricketing journey, illustrating how the NPL and robust grassroots development programs are foundational to achieving sustained success in the global cricket arena.
Khadka’s presentation focused on key areas crucial for Nepal’s cricketing future:
Nepal Premier League (NPL): Highlighting its burgeoning success in nurturing local talent and enhancing the sport’s profile.
CAN’s Structural Reforms: Detailing significant policy changes aimed at professionalizing the cricketing ecosystem.
Youth Development & Infrastructure: Emphasizing investment in young talent and upgrading cricketing facilities.
Vision for Full Membership: Outlining the aspiration for Nepal to become a full-fledged cricketing nation shortly.
Sandeep Lamichhane Praises Khadka’s “Grounding, Visionary, and Deeply Honest” Speech
Sandeep Lamichhane, Nepal’s celebrated spinner and former captain, lauded Khadka’s address as profoundly impactful. “The speech by Paras Khadka Sir at the ICC Annual Meeting wasn’t just impressive, it was grounding. Thoughtful, forward-looking, and filled with genuine care for Nepal cricket,” Lamichhane stated.
He further added, “He spoke not just as a former captain or CAN secretary, but as someone who deeply understands the game, its roots in our country, and the potential it holds. You could feel the honesty in his words—no fluff, just vision and intent.” Lamichhane’s sentiments, widely echoed across social media, cement Khadka’s role as a perpetual torchbearer for Nepali cricket.
From Local Leagues to International Acclaim
The Nepal Premier League, under CAN’s strategic guidance, transcends a mere tournament; it is a catalyst for fostering local talent, providing crucial international exposure, and drawing global attention to Nepal’s significant cricketing potential. Khadka stressed that robust domestic leagues and comprehensive youth outreach are indispensable for long-term success.
CAN’s recent strides include:
Structured Leagues: Implementing organized league formats and enhancing player management.
Infrastructure Investment: Bolstering training facilities and establishing regional cricket academies.
Grassroots Development: Expanding cricket development programs across all seven provinces of Nepal.
International Collaborations: Fostering partnerships and mentorship with established ICC member nations.
Charting Nepal’s Cricketing Future
Khadka’s vision is unequivocal: Nepal must evolve beyond a promising cricket nation to become a global leader. This entails advocating for more international fixtures, providing superior training and health support for athletes, and establishing transparent, growth-oriented governance.
With influential figures like Paras Khadka at the helm and the unwavering support of leaders like Sandeep Lamichhane, Nepal cricket is poised for an accelerated trajectory, set to redefine its global standing.
Paras Khadka: A Pioneer’s Enduring Legacy in Nepali Cricket
Born on October 24, 1987, in Kathmandu, Paras Khadka’s journey parallels the very rise of cricket in Nepal. A natural leader and an exemplary all-rounder, he swiftly ascended through the ranks, making his senior national debut in 2004. Assuming captaincy in 2009, Khadka spearheaded a historic transformation, notably leading Nepal to its inaugural ICC T20 World Cup appearance in 2014—a pivotal moment in the nation’s sporting narrative.
Beyond his on-field exploits, Khadka became a beacon of hope and unity, inspiring countless Nepali youths. His tireless advocacy for improved infrastructure and recognition significantly contributed to Nepal achieving ODI status in 2018, a monumental achievement that propelled the nation onto the world cricket stage.
Since stepping down from captaincy in 2019 and retiring from international cricket in 2021, Paras Khadka has seamlessly transitioned into cricket administration. As Secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), he continues to fortify the game’s foundations, prioritizing grassroots development, professional standards, and transparency.
From carrying bats to carrying the dreams of a nation, Paras Khadka’s journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and unwavering passion. He transformed Nepal from a cricketing underdog into a rising force and remains a guiding light for the future of Nepali cricket. His legacy extends beyond runs and victories; it lies in the enduring spirit he instilled in the game.
For more: Paras Khadka’s Vision
