Ex-India player Aakash Chopra has firmly supported Nepal’s swift ascent in international cricket, urging the ICC and prominent nations to go beyond mere token praise and offer associate teams continuous chances. Following Nepal’s close four-run loss to England in Mumbai, Chopra remarked that such performances should prompt regular bilateral series and tournaments instead of just temporary acclaim every World Cup cycle.
‘Cease the empty promises’: Ex-India cricketer’s stark warning following Nepal’s surprise in the T20 World Cup.
Nepal’s daring run-chase and the multitude of Nepali fans at Wankhede Stadium have become a significant storyline in the opening phases of the T20 World Cup 2026. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra cautioned against viewing teams like Nepal as infrequent participants in the global arena.
“I will discuss what we are doing with associate or somewhat lower-ranked teams.” It’s participatory tokenization. “It’s merely a superficial role,” Chopra stated. “This isn’t a post of gratitude; they perform well, and you’ll recall them two years later.”
Chopra highlighted that the enthusiasm for associate teams rapidly diminishes after the tournament concludes.
“They attended the wedding, and you overlooked them afterward.” “You’re not even aware of their location for the next two years,” he continued.
“The teams with lower rankings have performed admirably in each game, but this narrative will not persist, as we hear this tale once every two years.” “We commemorate it, discuss it, and then we utterly overlook it.”
“It’s of no concern to us whatsoever.” We proceed. We return to our houses and participate in our bilateral games and competitions. “People ignore them,” Chopra remarked. He noted that Nepal’s struggles to finish close games were unavoidable without regular experience in high-quality cricket.
Chopra emphasized that progress will occur solely through consistent matches against stronger teams, asserting that it is the duty of the established cricketing nations to involve associates for the overall development of the sport.
England, in the meantime, escaped a significant fright in their Group C debut, narrowly defeating Nepal by four runs after scoring 184 for seven. Nepal countered with a lively 180 for six, narrowly missing out despite a late push driven by Lokesh Bam’s not out 39 from 20 deliveries. Needing 10 runs from the last over, Nepal could only score five as Sam Curran bowled precise yorkers under pressure.
Previously, captain Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee collaborated for 82 runs for the third wicket, each contributing 39, while Kushal Bhurtel gave a fast start with a 29 off 17 balls. Bam’s late attack, featuring two sixes against Jofra Archer and consecutive boundaries off Luke Wood, edged Nepal closer to a remarkable upset.
Over 17,000 fans, mostly backing Nepal, filled the Wankhede and cheered at every instance, highlighting the sport’s increasing popularity in the Himalayan country. Despite the disappointment, Nepal’s achievement made a significant impact, strengthening Chopra’s plea for substantial, enduring assistance instead of sporadic appreciation.
✅FAQs(Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What did Aakash Chopra say about Nepal in the T20 World Cup?
A: Chopra praised Nepal’s performance but criticized the lack of consistent opportunities given to associate teams after World Cups.
Q: How close was Nepal to defeating England?
A: Nepal lost by just four runs after scoring 180 for six while chasing 185.
Q: Why is Nepal’s match significant in the T20 World Cup?
A: The match highlighted Nepal’s competitive quality and renewed debate over sustained support for associate nations.
