The Government of Nepal has unveiled an ambitious sports development agenda as part of its fiscal year 2083/84 budget, setting aside NRs 4 Arba and 3 Crore for the sports sector. The allocation signals a significant step-up in state investment in sports infrastructure, with cricket — Nepal's fastest-growing sport at the international level — receiving particular attention.
Eight Stadiums in Eight Cities
In the most significant cricket infrastructure announcement in Nepal's history, the government has committed to constructing fully-equipped, modern cricket stadiums in eight major cities across the country within the next five years. The plan, if executed on schedule, would transform Nepal's domestic cricket landscape — providing international-standard venues outside Kathmandu and creating the infrastructure needed to host top-level matches in multiple regions.
The multi-city approach reflects the government's intent to decentralise cricket development, ensuring that the growth of the sport is not confined to the capital. With Nepal having recently established themselves as a competitive Associate nation on the world stage, the demand for quality playing and training facilities has never been greater.
Design Framework for Three Key Grounds
Alongside the eight-city stadium plan, the government has allocated funds to finalise the design framework and investment modality for three cricket grounds already in various stages of development. These are among the most strategically significant cricket venues in Nepal.
1. Mulpani Cricket Stadium and Academy in Kathmandu
2. Girija Prasad Cricket Stadium in Biratnagar
3. Fapla Cricket Stadium in Dhangadi
Mulpani, located on the eastern fringe of Kathmandu, has long been earmarked as Nepal's premier cricket facility. The Girija Prasad Cricket Stadium in Biratnagar serves the eastern region of the country, while the Fapla Cricket Stadium in Dhangadi anchors cricket infrastructure in the far-western province. Firming up the investment modality for all three will be a critical step in moving these projects from blueprint to reality.
National Games: Surkhet and Madhesh Province
Beyond cricket, the budget also earmarks funds for two upcoming editions of the National Games — one of Nepal's most prestigious multi-sport events. The 10th National Games are set to be held in Surkhet, bringing national-level competition to Karnali Province, while the 11th National Games have been assigned to Madhesh Province, marking a continued effort to spread major sporting events across Nepal's diverse geography.