Bhutan National Cricket Team to Play Four Friendly Matches in Pokhara

Dragon Media Correspondent

Bhutan’s national men’s cricket team will play four friendly practice matches in Pokhara as part of its preparations for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Sub-Regional Qualifier A. All four matches will be held at the cricket ground in Pokhara Stadium, with support from the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and organisation by the Gandaki Province Cricket Association.

According to Gandaki Province Cricket Association President Sanjay Kanta Sigdel, Bhutan has selected Pokhara as its training destination ahead of the qualifying tournament, scheduled to begin in Malaysia on October 3. The visiting team will face the Gandaki Province cricket team on Asoj 11 and 12, followed by two matches against CAN XI on Asoj 14 and 15.

The opening match between Bhutan and Gandaki Province will take place on September 27, coinciding with World Tourism Day. Organisers view the occasion as an opportunity to strengthen the connection between cricket and tourism. The visiting international team is also expected to provide local players with valuable competitive experience.

Sigdel said the matches would contribute to cricket development in Pokhara while promoting sports tourism. Gandaki Province Cricket Association Secretary Suman Raj Karki said the association aims to develop Pokhara into a regular venue for national and international cricket events.

Organisers believe Bhutan’s visit will help strengthen sporting relations between Nepal and Bhutan, encourage further international cricket activities and enhance Pokhara’s profile as a sports tourism destination.