Sudurpashchim Makes History in Prime Minister Cup Cricket

Dhangadhi. Sudurpashchim has created history in the Prime Minister Cup One Day Men's Cricket Tournament. In this tournament, which has been dominated by departmental teams for the past seven editions, Sudurpashchim has set a new record in the eighth edition.

Since its inception in 2074, the Prime Minister Cup has been dominated by departmental teams such as Tribhuvan Army Club, Nepal Police Club, and the Armed Police Force (APF). 

In the ongoing tournament in Madhesh Province, Sudurpashchim secured its place in the final by defeating strong departmental teams like the defending champion Police Club and two-time winner APF. Sudurpashchim has proven that if given proper opportunities and preparation, provincial teams are no less than departmental teams.

The main reason behind Sudurpashchim's success appears to be the hard work of the players and private-level preparation. Captain Sher Malla stated that before the tournament began, most of the team members went to India for training at their own expense.  

He mentioned that despite not receiving significant support from government or provincial bodies, the players left no stone unturned to improve their game. 

Assistant coach Dev Narayan Jha said the team was very balanced this time. Similarly, the arrival of former international player Dhirendra Chand as head coach boosted the players' morale. 'There was a distinct energy in our team from the beginning. Due to the coordination between senior and junior players, we were able to achieve good results on the field,' said Jha.

Some players' performances were impressive during Sudurpashchim's journey to the final. In bowling, Hemant Dhami performed magically, taking 25 wickets in 9 matches to top the list of highest wicket-takers. He was well supported by captain Sher Malla with 22 wickets.

In batting, Narayan Joshi proved his worth by scoring 303 runs in 9 matches, while Abhishek Pal and Ashok Dhami also stepped up when the team was in crisis. Both the bowling and batting aspects of Sudurpashchim have looked very sharp this time.

Although Sudurpashchim has made history on the field, players, coaches, and managers face challenges. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has provided 11 lakh rupees to each team for preparation and management. However, this amount is insufficient for transportation, quality hotel accommodation, diet, and kits. With expensive hotel packages and the long duration of the tournament, the province has had to bear additional expenses.

On the other hand, the gap in facilities between departmental and provincial players remains large. Departmental players receive monthly salaries, allowances, and year-round training facilities. Provincial players are only active during the tournament. Players suggest that if some salary or allowance is provided to those playing from the province, it would be easier for them to practice.

Meanwhile, there is excitement among cricket fans in the province following Sudurpashchim's entry into the final. Cricket enthusiast Paras Khadka said that Sudurpashchim is a fertile land for cricket. 'Our Sudurpashchim is a fertile land for cricket. This team has proven by creating history that a son of Sudurpashchim is no less than anyone. Now the government should pay attention to the salaries and facilities of these players,' said Khadka.

For the title, Sudurpashchim will face Tribhuvan Army Club on Baishakh 4. Army is the only undefeated team in this tournament so far and has reached the final in all editions. 

Sudurpashchim reached the final by winning 6 out of 9 matches and collecting 12 points.