Former Nepali Cricket Captain Gyanendra Malla Enters Political Arena, Discusses Challenges on 'Talk Forward' Podcast

Kathmandu. Former captain of the Nepali national cricket team, Gyanendra Malla, has entered a new arena: politics. As a proportional representation candidate for the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Gyanendra has embarked on this new journey with a resolve to apply the disciplined role of sports to politics as well.

On the Ratopati podcast 'Talk Forward,' he spoke candidly about various aspects of society, its problems, and the necessary work in the sports sector.

"Politics is certainly different from sports. Cricket is a specific discipline and its scope is limited. But politics encompasses all sectors and every class of society," he said. "After getting involved in politics, one has to connect with people from various fields of society, address their issues, and work within a much broader network. This is a field that moves forward in a slightly different and wider manner."

He was asked: When you were on the field, you were a common favorite, but after entering politics, you must belong to one side or another. Are you feeling the pressure or not?

"The way people look at you changes once you enter partisan politics. Those who liked me as a player yesterday might not like me as a politician today. I had already anticipated this," he said. "Many well-wishers have expressed concern, saying, 'It would have been better if you hadn't entered politics; politics might tarnish the name cricket gave you.' I understand their concern and affection."

However, he argues that if everyone shies away by calling politics a dirty game, no one will clean it up. "If we always call politics dirty and step aside, who will clean it up? As responsible citizens, someone must step forward to bring about change," Gyanendra stated.

On 'Talk Forward,' Gyanendra discussed the reasons for entering politics, his political agenda, the T20 World Cup cricket, and the problems in the sports sector. The interview can be watched and listened to in video format.

Video: Ayush Dhami/Ratopati