11th Pakistan–Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament 2026 Concludes in Kathmandu

EDUCAST, The final match and closing ceremony of the 11th Edition of the Pakistan–Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament 2026 was successfully held today at the Pakistan Embassy premises in Kathmandu.

The tournament, organized from 7 to 15 February, featured twelve teams from various Nepali cricket clubs, including the Pakistan Embassy Team. Since its inception in 2014, the annual tournament has celebrated the shared passion for cricket between Pakistan and Nepal while contributing to the development of youth cricketing talent.

Baluwatar Cricket Academy emerged as the tournament champion, receiving the winning trophy and a cash prize, while the Pakistan Embassy Team secured the runner-up position. Trophies, medals, and cash awards were presented by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, H.E. Abrar H. Hashmi, along with distinguished guests.

The closing ceremony was attended by the Ambassadors of Bangladesh and China, the Secretary General of SAARC, the Charge d’Affaires of Malaysia, and other members of the diplomatic community. Former and current officials of the Cricket Association of Nepal, leaders of the Pakistan–Nepal Alumni Network, Nepal–Pakistan Friendship and Cultural Association, Nepal–Pakistan Youth Council, representatives from media and civil society, members of the Pakistani community, and officials and families of the Pakistan Embassy were also present.

Recognizing the tournament’s lasting impact, seven Nepali cricketers who had participated in earlier editions and later progressed to Nepal’s national-level teams were specially honored.

In his remarks, Mr. Iqbal Haider, Counsellor (Political & Education), highlighted the Pakistan Embassy’s continued efforts to promote cricket at the grassroots level, emphasizing the tournament’s role in nurturing emerging talent in Nepal.

In his closing address, Ambassador Abrar Hashmi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening youth engagement and sporting exchanges between Pakistan and Nepal. He announced that the 12th edition of the tournament in 2027 will expand to 16 participating teams. The Ambassador congratulated all participating teams, particularly the winners, and expressed appreciation to supporting partners IME Global Bank and Filli Cafe, as well as broadcasting partners Action TV and Dish Home Media Network for their live coverage across Nepal and beyond. He also commended the Embassy’s organizing team, match officials, groundsmen, and support staff for the successful conduct of the tournament.

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