New Delhi: 

Nepal and the West Indies will square off in a three-match T20I series in what will be the first-ever bilateral affair between the two teams, scheduled in September in Sharjah.

Despite the games being slated at a neutral venue, Nepal will be the official hosts of the series. A statement from Cricket West Indies (CWI) termed the series “historic” and called it a “significant milestone in the ongoing mission to grow and globalize the game of cricket”.

West Indies to field ‘competitive squad’

“Supporting Nepal in this key phase of their cricketing journey not only builds the sport at the grassroots and international levels but also reminds us of the deep pride and honour associated with representing our nation and wearing our national colours.

We are proud to stand with Nepal at this moment in their history and look forward to exciting and competitive cricket in Sharjah,” the statement added, while also mentioning that West Indies were expected to field a “competitive squad” for the series.

The T20I team of West Indies is currently in Ireland for a three-T20I series, of which the first game was called off due to rain. Meanwhile, Nepal are in Scotland for a T20I tri-series along with the Netherlands. Talking of their ICC rankings in the T20I format, two-time World Cup champions West Indies are currently ranked fifth, while Nepal are 18th.

The three games will be played on September 27, 28, and 30 in the lead up to Nepal’s participation in the Asia qualifier of the men’s T20 World Cup later this year. “This series is more than just a set of international matches – it’s a celebration of the game’s expanding global footprint and a testament to what cricket represents: pride, purpose, and the power of unity,” Chris Dehring, the CWI chief executive, said in the statement.

He went on to add that supporting an emerging cricketing nation like Nepal in this phase will build the sport at the grassroots and international level as well. “As a full-member nation, we see it as part of our responsibility to contribute to the development of cricket beyond our borders.”

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