Paras Khadka is leading nation side for the first time in the one-day matches. After replacing Binod Das last November as captain, Paras led Nepal to unimpressive fifth-place finish in the ACC Twenty20 Elite Cup. In the form of the Pepsi ICC World Cricket League Division 5, Paras has an opportunity to become Nepal’s most successful captain by winning a senior event.
Cricket Nepal talked with Paras, 23, about the event. Excerpts:
How was the preparation for the event?
We practiced for nearly one-and-half months. We have always played well in Nepal and we know the situation. We played practice matches on all three grounds and if we could utilize all this, we will have good results.
How important is the event?
This event carries big importance for us. This is a qualifier for the Division 4. If we could not do well, our World Cup dreams will be ruined. More than half of the players have played for 7 or 8 years. I feel if we could not progress, we should give youngsters a chance.
What’s our aim in the WCL Div 5?
Of course to win the event. Our first aim will be to be in the final and qualify for the Division 4. We always play for wins and we will take match-by-match.
Which players you have put more faith on for good performance?
I have hoped much from the opening batsmen. It’s not easy for openers to stay long on the pitches but if they give us a start, the middle-order can go well. Many of the players have played together for long and I believe this is an opportunity for all to show their capacity.
What’s the team’s strength?
I believe, the support from spectators and the condition here are our biggest strength. Home support will play a big role. Other teams, I believe, have no experience of playing in front of a big crowd. During earlier events, while we played well with crowd, other teams were little nervous.
Isn’t there pressure to play well on home turfs?
No pressure, we enjoy playing at home. When the crowd chants names of us, it gives a different enthusiasm.
Your coach believes you are a key player. What you expect from yourself?
Certainly, I have a big role as a captain. I am an all-rounder as a player and if I could contribute well, it encourages other players. I want to be exemplary. I have told all my teammates that this is the event to perform well if we want to take cricket forward and they all have understood this well.