Cricket is more than just a sport in Nepal; it’s a national passion that unites the country. The excitement surrounding the match between Nepal and the United Arab Emirates in the Cricket World Cup League 2 on Wednesday, March 15, was palpable. The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur was packed to capacity, with more than 30,000 spectators in attendance.
The match was expected to be a close one, with both teams playing at a high level. Nepal, led by Rohit Paudel, had won their previous match against Papua New Guinea by nine wickets, and were looking to continue their winning streak. UAE, on the other hand, were looking to bounce back from their previous loss.
After winning the toss, UAE elected to bat first, and their decision paid off. Asif Khan played a sensational knock, scoring 101 runs off just 42 balls, with 11 sixes and 4 fours. Vriitya Aravind also played an important innings, scoring 94 runs off 138 balls, with 8 fours and 2 sixes. UAE ended their innings with a formidable total of 310/6.
Nepal’s chase didn’t start well, and they lost two early wickets in the first four overs. However, the fans in the stadium continued to cheer on their team, hoping for a comeback. The atmosphere was electric, with the fans creating a sea of red and blue, waving flags and chanting songs.
What was even more remarkable was the number of fans who couldn’t get a seat inside the stadium. Some climbed trees outside the stadium, while others climbed on top of nearby buses and vehicles to get a view of the match. Pictures and videos of fans watching the match from unconventional vantage points flooded social media platforms, showcasing the passion of Nepali fans for the game of cricket.
This match was more than just a cricket match; it was a celebration of the Nepali spirit and their love for the game. The passion and energy displayed by the fans were truly inspiring, and it demonstrated how cricket can bring people together and create a sense of community.
Here are all the images emerging from Nepal vs UAE cricket match:
Pic of the year so far: Crowd for UAE vs Nepal match.
Nepal Cricket fans are one of the crazy fans in cricket. pic.twitter.com/NteqaDgvEt
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 16, 2023
Crazy crowd gathered in Nepal to watch their team play against the UAE. pic.twitter.com/N8vr0Qomz7
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 16, 2023
Fans watching the match on the tree – madness of Cricket in Nepal. pic.twitter.com/RoOSZyptNS
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 16, 2023
Incredible Scene as Thousands of Fans came to witness the Epic Showdown Between Nepal and UAE at TU International Cricket Ground. Check out these Stunning Pictures of a Housefull Crowd Cheering on their Teams!
#CWCL2 #NEPvUAE #weCAN pic.twitter.com/lGu150vOlz
— CAN (@CricketNep) March 16, 2023
Nepal fans are absolute crazy and incredibly passionate for cricket.
The way Nepal fans shows their love for his Nepal team and cricket is amazing to see, one of the best fans in the world.!! pic.twitter.com/DvrQjMS30q
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) March 16, 2023
Fans are watching Nepal vs UAE ODI match on the trees in Nepal.
This is Unbelievable! pic.twitter.com/pwFrLNMS0B
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) March 16, 2023
Sending strength and power to our "Nepal Team".????
Let's watch this match with a great gesture of respect to everybody???
#CWCL2. #nepalcricket #jaycricket pic.twitter.com/bZCBOhQFCF— Ashmina Karmacharya (@beingAshmina) March 16, 2023
? Absolute fever pitch as Nepal reduce UAE to 8 for 4 in front of the biggest crowd I've ever seen at this ground.
It's a work day today in Kathmandu, look at the passion!!!! pic.twitter.com/VzFNggySCq
— Andrew Leonard (@CricketBadge) March 12, 2023