Ideal opportunity for Nepal to get ODI status

Team Nepal has been rising up the ranks in world cricket in the recent times. Their rise from the lower divisions to the higher ones is a testimony of the significant improvement that they have shown in the sport. Now, a golden opportunity beckons team Nepal in the form of the ODI status grant. Ireland and Afghanistan had gained the ODI status after having performed exceedingly well in the ICC Trophy.

Almost a month ago, both the teams were granted the full member status following their steady show at the helm of world cricket. With the inclusion of Afghanistan and Ireland as the full member nations, there is a void cricket for two new countries to get the ODI status now. Currently, the two teams that follow Ireland and Afghanistan in the standings of the WCL Championship are Scotland and Hong Kong.

They are also ranked fifth and sixth among the Associate nations at the moment. This does not necessarily mean that these two teams would be granted the ODI status. There is an equal opportunity for other teams like Nepal to make the cut too. Albeit they are ranked lower than Scotland and Hong Kong in the standings, they can make the cut to seal the ODI status by performing well in the ICC World Cup Qualifier 2018.

Others in frame

Along with Nepal – Kenya, Canada, and Oman – also have an equal chance. As per the reports in News Beat Nepal, a negative performance could see the side relegated as well. The report stated, “If Kenya and Nepal fail to finish in top four of WCL Championship, they will be relegated to Division 2 as well.”

As per the WCL Points Table, the Nepali side will be joined by the likes of UAE, Namibia, Oman, Kenya, and Canada in WCL Division 2. They will have two away games to play against Hong Kong. The result of these two fixtures will have a serious impact on the points table. It will be interesting to see if Nepali boys make it to the big stage. Expect some serious celebrations if they get the ODI status!