Shakti Gauchan, former national cricketer and current head coach of Nepal’s U-19 team, shared his disappointment following the abandoned final match of the ICC U19 World Cup Asia Qualifier on Saturday at Lower Mulpani Cricket Ground.
The highly anticipated clash between Nepal U19 and Afghanistan U19 was called off due to continuous rainfall and an unplayable outfield, dashing Nepal’s hopes of securing a place in the ICC U19 World Cup through this qualifier.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gauchan expressed the emotional weight of the outcome: “This journey began three months ago with big dreams. The team was full of promise and performed consistently. It’s heartbreaking to see our hopes end this way due to weather. It’s unfortunate, but we have to accept it and move on,” he said.
Nepal has participated in eight editions of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, and despite coming close on multiple occasions, they’ve missed out on qualification six times.
The abandoned final leaves Nepal’s U19 side reflecting on a campaign filled with promise, but ultimately halted by forces beyond their control.
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