September 23, 2023
In a shocking turn of events during the recently concluded Nepal Cricket Assembly (CAN) general assembly, former Nepali cricket player Lakpa, hailing from Jhapa, found himself at the center of a heated dispute that ultimately led to him expulsion from the assembly. The passionate athlete, who has represented Nepal in international age-group competitions and has played alongside notable cricketing figures like Paras, Gyanendra Sharad, and Basant, voiced her outrage after being forcibly removed from the assembly.
Lakpa's frustration reached a boiling point as he exclaimed, "I'd rather mortgage my land and personally fund a women's cricket team to participate in the Asian Games than witness the current state of affairs in our cricket administration. It's disheartening to see that while the Malaysian cricket team is competing against India, we are grappling with internal strife. This country is rife with corruption, and today's expulsion of a district representative under the guise of 'legality' only adds to the disillusionment."
He further questioned the composition of the panel, wondering aloud, "Is it conceivable that there is no representation from my district? Don't we have the freedom to voice our opinions?"
Lakpa, who dedicated eight years of his life to representing the nation on the cricket field, revealed the struggles faced by players even after their playing careers are over. "I am coaching without any financial support, and at times, we have had to dip into our own pockets to nurture and develop new talent. I distinctly remember spending my own money, Rs. 5,000, to purchase cricket shoes, even when offered equipment beneath our standards. It was a matter of national pride."
Feeling deeply disrespected and humiliated by his expulsion from the CAN general assembly, Lakpa's passionate outburst shines a harsh light on the challenges faced by former athletes in Nepal and the pressing need for reform within the country's cricketing administration. His emotional plea for transparency and accountability serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles endured by those who have given their all for the love of the game and the honor of representing their nation.