The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has officially announced a 32-member closed camp squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup East Asia Qualifiers. The selection has drawn a lot of attention for both the returns it features and the notable omissions — particularly that of death-over specialist Abinash Bohara.
Confirmed 32-Player Squad
1. Rohit Paudel. 2. Kushal Bhurtel
3. Anil Shah 4. Aasif Sheikh
5. Bhim Sharki 6. Gulshan Jha
7. Rupesh Singh 8. Basir Ahmad
9. Shahab Alam. 10. Yubraj Khatri
11. Kiran Thagunna 12. Dipendra Singh Airee
13. Kushal Malla. 14. Aarif Sheikh
15. Nandan Yadav 16. Karan KC
17. Sompal Kami 18. Rijan Dhakal
19. Pratish GC 20. Lalit Narayan Rajbanshi
21. Kamal Singh Airee 22. Sagar Dhakal
23. Sandeep Lamichhane 24. Aakash Chand
25. Bibek Yadav 26. Md Adil Alam
27. Pawan Sharraf 28. Sundeep Jora
29. Sher Malla 30. Subh Kansakar
31. Arjun Gharti 32. Lokesh Bam
Comebacks: Familiar Faces Return
Md Adil Alam, who has been out of the squad for a while, makes a return, likely due to strong domestic performances.
Sundeep Jora and Pawan Sharraf also return, giving the side a boost in middle-order options and all-round ability.
These returns indicate that CAN is keeping the door open for players who perform well at the domestic level — and that past form still counts.
Notable Absence: Where is Abinash Bohara?
Despite being one of Nepal’s most reliable T20 bowlers — especially in the death overs — Abinash Bohara, also known as the “Yorker King,” has not been included in the squad. This is a surprise to many, given his experience and specialist skills.
His absence has raised eyebrows. While no official reason has been given, it could relate to current form, fitness, or a strategic decision by the new coaching staff. Regardless, fans will hope it’s not the end of the road for the seasoned pacer.
Clarification on Kushal Malla
Contrary to confusion earlier, Kushal Malla is very much included in the 32-player camp. Though he has struggled with form recently, his natural power-hitting ability and left-arm spin still make him a valuable asset in T20 cricket. This camp is a crucial opportunity for him to bounce back and lock in a place for the qualifiers.
Is the New Coach Taking Risks?
This squad is the first major step taken by Nepal's new head coach, and the selections suggest a focus on current performance and future potential over past reputation. Several youngsters — like Nandan Yadav, Pratish GC, and Rijan Dhakal — have been called up, which shows a willingness to invest in fresh talent.
Still, the decision to leave out an experienced campaigner like Bohara could be seen as a gamble, especially in a tournament where calm heads under pressure matter most.
What’s Next?
This 32-player squad will train in a closed camp leading up to the final squad selection for the East Asia Qualifiers. Only 15–17 will make the final cut, and with fierce competition for spots, the next few weeks will be crucial for many players.
Nepal's road to the T20 World Cup begins here — and the selection battle is heating up.