The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has issued an apology regarding the ‘timeout’ appeal made by Nepali players during the match against Bhutan. In the ACC Premier Cup, when Bhutanese batsmen entered the field late, the Nepali players appealed to the umpire for a timeout. CAN Secretary Paras Khadka, in an official statement, described the incident as inconsistent with the spirit and values of cricket. Kathmandu, 21 Jestha.
In the statement released by CAN, the incident was deemed contrary to the spirit and values of cricket. “Although this out comes within the rules of cricket, the spirit of the game should always take precedence over rules and remain central to our conduct,” CAN Secretary Paras Khadka noted in the statement.
CAN acknowledged that as a developing cricket nation, Nepal prioritizes sportsmanship, mutual respect, and fair play, and admitted that the incident failed to align with these principles. The statement expressed regret over the disappointment caused by the event. CAN extended its apology to Bhutan Cricket, the players involved, and other stakeholders, affirming its commitment to uphold the spirit of cricket and high ethical standards both on and off the field.
During today’s ACC Premier Cup match between Nepal and Bhutan, when Bhutan began their reply innings, a wicket fell on the first ball, and the next batsman took some time to reach the crease. At that moment, Nepali players questioned the umpire and lodged an appeal. While the appeal was technically permissible under the rules, there has been an understanding that such actions contradict the spirit of the game.
