Nepal’s Paras Khadka retires from international cricket

Former Nepal skipper Paras Khadka decided to hang his boots from international cricket after playing for the nation for the last 18 years since 2002. The all-rounder represented his country in 10 ODIs and 33 T20Is, having scored over 1,000 runs. The now 33-year-old also scored two centuries five half-centuries at the highest level.

His top international score of 115 came against the United Arab Emirates in January 2019 at the ICCA Dubai Ground. His other ton came against Singapore in September 2019 where he notched an unbeaten 52-ball 106. Khadka also picked 17 wickets in ODIs and T20Is.

“With utmost clarity, respect and gratitude. I have now decided to retire myself from playing international cricket,” Khadka wrote.

“Playing for Nepal has been my biggest achievement and for that, I will always be indebted towards my coaches, players, fans, stakeholders, friends and family for their continuous support over the last 18 years since I started as a young 15-year-old, back in 2002,” he stated.

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— Paras Khadka (@paras77) August 3, 2021

I have spent all my energy in the last two decades: Paras Khadka

Having contributed whole-heartedly to Nepal’s cricket over the last two decades, Khadka wishes to see a ‘better cricketing system’ in the country.

“Why now? Because it’s about time. As a cricketer, I have given my heart, blood and soul and have always dreamt to achieve better for my country.

“My Ultimate dream is to see Nepal have a better cricketing system for which I have spent all my energy in the last two decades and to improve it will require equal support from everyone n the cricketing community and beyond.

“I believe with everyone’s honest effort and intention; we will be able to do so,” Khadka added.

Khadka also played three U19 World Cups for Nepal in 2004, 2006 and 2008 respectively. In 2009, he took over as the national captain. He was also adjudged the Player of the Tournament in the Under-19 ACC Trophy in 2007.

Back in October 2019, the veteran Khadka decided to resign as the national captain after serving the country for around a decade.

His last international match was against Thailand in the ACC Eastern Region T20 back in March 2020. He couldn’t score big but remains a torchbearer of Nepal cricket.