KATHMANDU: The Nepali national men’s cricket team was officially bid farewell today as it prepares to depart for Singapore to compete in the Asian Games Cricket Qualifier beginning May 31.

The farewell program was organized in Kathmandu by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), with players, coaching staff, and officials expressing confidence ahead of the crucial tournament.

Nepal has been placed in Group ‘A’ alongside Malaysia and China, while Group ‘B’ includes Oman, Hong Kong, Bahrain, and host nation Singapore. Qatar, initially included in Group ‘A’, has withdrawn from the competition.

Speaking during the event, captain Dipendra Singh Airee said the team atmosphere is highly positive and expressed optimism about delivering strong performances in the qualifier.

Head coach Stuart Law also voiced confidence in the squad, stating that the players are motivated and fully prepared for the tournament.

The top four teams reaching the semifinals of the qualification event will secure places in the men’s cricket competition at the upcoming Asian Games.

The Asian Games cricket tournament is scheduled to take place from September 17 to October 3 in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and host Japan have already earned direct qualification for the event.