Sandeep Lamichhane dedicates Premier Cup triumph to Nepal flood victims

KATHMANDU: An emotional Sandeep Lamichhane dedicated Nepal's ACC Men’s Premier Cup triumph to the victims of the recent floods in Nepal after leading his side to the title and a place in the 2027 Asia Cup.

Nepal defeated UAE by 44 runs in Saturday's final at the Bayuemas Cricket Oval, successfully defending 313 by bowling their opponents out for 269.

Lamichhane was named Player of the Tournament after finishing as the competition's leading wicket-taker. The leg-spinner claimed 16 wickets at an average of 6.75 and an economy rate of 2.45, with best figures of 5/14.

"Feeling over the moon," Lamichhane said after receiving the award. "Everyone back home must be really, really happy."

His celebrations were tempered by the impact of the floods in Nepal. Lamichhane said the players had discussed the situation from the beginning of the tournament and wanted their success to provide something positive during a difficult period.

"This victory, this trophy, everything is dedicated to the flood victims," he said.

Lamichhane also appealed for continued assistance for those affected, including families who had lost loved ones or remained in difficulty.

"Please do help Nepal at this point of time," he said. "Nepal needs your support."

Reflecting on Nepal's campaign, Lamichhane said the title was built on contributions from across the squad rather than being dependent on one player.

Nepal had different match-winners throughout the tournament. Lamichhane took 5/14 against Bahrain, Karan KC claimed four wickets against Malaysia, Gulshan Jha completed the chase against Saudi Arabia, and Dipendra Singh Airee and Basir Ahamad rescued Nepal in the semi-final against Oman.

Aasif Sheikh then produced 102 in the final before Karan’s three wickets helped Nepal defend their total against UAE.

"Every day you saw a new Player of the Match from our team," Lamichhane said. "It was not about one particular player giving his effort."

The captain admitted Nepal were disappointed by their 15-run group-stage defeat against Hong Kong but praised the players for responding under knockout pressure.

He also thanked head coach Stuart Law, the assistant coaches, manager, analyst, physiotherapist, trainer and other members of the team management.

Lamichhane reserved particular praise for the Nepal supporters who attended the matches in Malaysia, describing them as the team’s “12th man”.

"They left their work, came down and supported us in every single game," he said.

The victory gave Nepal their second Premier Cup title and secured their return to the Asia Cup. Nepal also defeated UAE in the inaugural final in 2023 to qualify for their first Asia Cup.

Lamichhane believes the latest achievement can become the starting point for further progress.

"This is just the beginning,” he said. "Nepal cricket has more to offer to world cricket."