Stuart Law pauses to reflect on the role of cricket in a larger context. The Australian coach of Nepal’s cricket team observes their steady progress toward the Asia Cup finals. Under his guidance, the team has secured three victories in the qualifying tournament held in Malaysia.
Yet, these achievements unfold against a grim backdrop. Flash floods in Nepal have claimed over 1,300 lives, with more than 5,000 individuals still missing. “There’s a strong sense of unity here. If one suffers, all feel the pain,” says Law, who led Nepal to the T20 World Cup finals earlier this year. “The team’s struggle to focus on cricket amidst such tragedy is palpable.”
On July 26, a devastating glacier collapse sparked massive floods and mudslides across Nepal and Tibet. The human and infrastructural toll is enormous.
Law shared his thoughts from Kuala Lumpur, where the mood is somber among the players. The disaster struck during warm-up matches, deeply affecting the team. “Despite being here, their thoughts remain with those at home,” expresses Law. “The support we receive gains more meaning when the stakes transcend winning a cricket game. The aim is to bring some joy to the Nepalese people.”
The players contribute from afar. “Some prominent players have donated to relief and rescue efforts,” shares Law. Notably, Rohit Poudel, co-owner of a Kathmandu café, directed proceeds to aid relief. Sandeep Lamichhane pledged donations for each boundary and wicket in the qualifiers. These acts underline the team’s commitment to alleviating the situation’s impact.
Ishan Pandey, a left-handed batter and practicing medical doctor, recounts the devastation. Although none of the players’ families are affected, they witness familiar places destroyed. “Two junior doctors I knew have vanished during the floods,” Pandey says. “Being home, I would have joined the relief efforts. Here, even a small victory is a token of comfort for those affected.”
Nepal faces Hong Kong on Tuesday, a must-win game to advance in the qualifiers. Law acknowledges the profound significance of cricket in Nepal. “Cricket evokes strong emotions here. Understanding this, I recognize how much it means to the people,” he states. “However, recent events highlight cricket’s place in life’s priorities.”
Law reflects, “Comparing cricket to war is misleading. Though cricket is vital to Nepal, we must remain aware of what’s truly important. Playing for meaningful reasons, while considering the global context, will guide us through these times.”
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