Cricket diplomacy on display as Pakistan-Nepal Friendship T20 concludes in Kathmandu

February 15, Kathmandu: The 11th Edition of the Pakistan-Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament 2026 concluded on Sunday at the Pakistan Embassy grounds in Kathmandu, marking another chapter in what has steadily evolved into a platform of cricket diplomacy between the two countries.

Organised annually since 2014 by the Embassy of Pakistan, this year’s tournament brought together 12 teams, including leading Nepali clubs and the Pakistan Embassy Team. Baluwatar Cricket Academy clinched the title, while the Embassy team finished runner-up.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, Abrar H. Hashmi, along with distinguished guests, including envoys from Bangladesh and China and the Secretary General of SAARC, presented trophies and cash prizes to the winners and standout performers.

More than a competition, the tournament has increasingly served as a meaningful platform to support young and emerging Nepali cricketers by offering exposure, structured play, and opportunities to sharpen their skills.

In recent years, Nepal’s rise in international cricket has energised young players across the country. Reflecting this progress, seven Nepali cricketers who had participated in earlier editions of the tournament and later advanced to national-level teams were specially recognised.

In his remarks, Ambassador Hashmi described cricket as a bridge between people, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to youth engagement and sporting exchanges. He announced that the 12th edition in 2027 will expand to 16 teams.

As matches streamed live across Nepal, the week-long tournament once again demonstrated how sport — particularly cricket — continues to serve as a subtle but effective instrument of friendship and regional goodwill.