The Nepali women’s cricket team is heading to Uganda for a T20I series from March 8 to 16, following a 0-6 record against the Netherlands and Thailand. Coach Manoj Katwal expresses confidence in breaking their losing streak, focusing on preparation and fitness improvements with the new conditioning coach. The team has historically faced Uganda and Hong Kong with mixed results, aiming for success in this upcoming quadrangular series.
The Nepali women’s cricket team is scheduled to compete in Uganda from March 8 to 16, participating in a T20I series alongside Hong Kong and Namibia. This follows a challenging series against the Netherlands and Thailand, where Nepal lost all six matches. Coach Manoj Katwal expressed strong determination to end the losing streak in Uganda, indicating that their aim is solely victory in the upcoming matches.
The squad of 14 members, selected from an initial pool of 18 following a training camp at the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), departed for Uganda after a farewell event. CAN Secretary Paras Khadka acknowledged the growing interest in women’s cricket and encouraged the players, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus under pressure. \n
The head coach noted that the players have had ample preparation time, improving their game despite previous setbacks. He views the upcoming series as a chance to enhance the team’s performance, stating that their competition will likely be less formidable than their recent rivals. Captain Indu Barma echoed this sentiment, demonstrating confidence in the team’s strategic preparations and mutual support.
To further enhance performance, Monika, a new strength and conditioning coach, has joined the team, promising improved fitness levels which have previously hindered their game. This addition is expected to reduce run-out incidents and boost powerful hitting. Nepal’s first match will be against Namibia, marking the inaugural encounter in T20Is between the two sides.
Historically, Nepal has faced Uganda and Hong Kong numerous times. Against Uganda, the Nepali team had a mixed record, having lost the initial three matches during their last series in Kirtipur but subsequently winning the last two. Uganda has shown significant improvement since then, with recent successes including wins against the USA and other teams in international tournaments.
Nepal has a slightly favorable record against Hong Kong, winning four out of seven encounters since 2019. Coach Katwal remains optimistic about the balance of experienced and younger players in the squad but stresses the importance of respecting their opponents’ abilities.
The Nepali women’s cricket team’s upcoming series in Uganda represents both a challenge and an opportunity to reset their recent performance. Despite past losses, the players’ preparation and adjustments in coaching staff signal readiness to compete fiercely. With a commitment to improving their game and winning the series, Nepal aims to convert its potential into tangible success in the T20I matches against Namibia, Uganda, and Hong Kong.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
