KIRTIPUR – What was intended to be a celebratory milestone for Nepali cricket was overshadowed by a diplomatic embarrassment on Monday evening. The opening match of the “Under Lights T20I Series”—Nepal’s first-ever international home series played under floodlights—began with a significant organizational lapse during the national anthem ceremony.
Organizational Blunder
The atmosphere at the Tribhuvan University Ground turned tense when the public address system failed to play the correct national anthem for the visiting United Arab Emirates (UAE) team. According to reports from the ground, the wrong audio track was played twice.
The first attempt lasted roughly 30 seconds before players pointed out the error. Following a minute-long delay, a second, equally incorrect anthem was broadcast. The repeated failures prompted the UAE squad to abandon the ceremony entirely. Captain Mohammad Waseem was seen visibly frustrated as he led his team back to the dugout before the first ball was bowled.
UAE Clinches Victory Under the Lights
Despite the pre-match friction, the action on the field proved clinical for the visitors. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Nepal struggled to find momentum, reaching 122/8 in 18.5 overs before a heavy downpour interrupted play.
When the match resumed, the UAE was set a DLS-adjusted target of 78 runs in 10 overs. Led by a lightning-fast 33 from captain Mohammad Waseem, the UAE chased the total down with seven balls to spare, finishing at 78/4 in 8.5 overs.
Key Performers:
- Muhammad Zuhaib (UAE): Named Player of the Match for his decisive spell of 3/29.
- Sandeep Lamichhane (Nepal): Provided a brief glimmer of hope for the hosts, taking 3/8 in his two overs.
CAN Faces Pressure for Clarification
While the “Under Lights” series was designed to showcase Nepal’s growing cricket infrastructure, the focus has shifted toward the administrative failure of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). Journalists and fans have called for an immediate official apology to the UAE delegation to prevent the incident from straining sporting relations.
The UAE now leads the two-match series 1–0, with the final encounter scheduled for Tuesday evening at the same venue. CAN officials are expected to issue a statement regarding the anthem mishap before the second match commences.
