Harshal Pathak Takes Charge as Head Coach of Nepal Women's Cricket Team
New Leadership for Nepal's Women's Cricket
Kathmandu, Nepal - December 16: The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has officially announced the appointment of Harshal Pathak as the head coach for the Nepal women's national cricket team.
Pathak will be at the helm during upcoming international competitions, focusing on player development and team readiness. The CAN expressed optimism that his leadership will enhance the performance of the women's national team.
Before this role, Pathak was the coach for Thailand's men's cricket team. Following a call for applications, he has now taken on the responsibility of coaching the Nepali women's squad, which is set to compete in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier from January 18 to February 1 on home soil.
This year, Nepal secured their spot in the global qualifier by finishing as the runner-up in the Asia Qualifier held in Thailand in May, where Thailand emerged as the top team. Asia was allocated two qualification slots, while the Americas received just one.
In a recent match against the UAE, Nepal successfully chased down a target of 115 runs, achieving the total in 19.2 overs with five wickets lost. Captain Indu Barma led the charge with a top score of 33 runs, ensuring victory and a place in the global qualifier with one match still to play.
The UAE, batting first, managed to score 114 runs for 7 in their 20 overs. Esha Rohit Oza contributed significantly with 39 runs, while Theertha Satish, Heena Hotchandani, and Lavanya Keny added 21, 20, and 12 runs, respectively.
Manisha Upadhyay was the standout bowler for Nepal, taking four wickets for just 20 runs in her four overs. Kabita Kunwar and Rajmati Airee also contributed with two and one wickets, respectively. This vital five-wicket victory has secured Nepal's advancement, regardless of the outcome of their remaining match against Thailand. The UAE, having lost both of their Super Three matches, has been eliminated from the tournament.
Earlier on Sunday, Thailand confirmed their qualification for the global qualifier by defeating the UAE by 54 runs, bringing their total points to eight.