Nepal is the India of associates: Namibia skipper Gerhard Erasmus

The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 is set to kick off in Kirtipur, Nepal on February 15, 2024. With three teams fighting for a place in the next edition of the World Cup in 2027. Gerhard Erasmus, the skipper of the Namibian cricket team, has lauded the crowd in Nepal and drew a comparison between the passionate cricket cultures of Nepal and India.

Much like their counterparts, Nepali fans are renowned for their unwavering support and electrifying presence in the stadiums. Their chants, flags, and sheer exuberance create an atmosphere making every match very exciting.

Namibian skipper excited to play in Nepal

Arriving in Nepal for the tri-series, Erasmus expressed his delight at the prospect of playing cricket in front of such an enthusiastic crowd and lauded the Nepali fans for their dedication and emphasized the privilege it is for the visiting teams to experience such fervent support.

In his eyes, Nepal embodies the essence of cricketing passion, akin to what one would encounter in cricket-crazed India. During an interview with Kantipur News ahead of the match the Namibian skipper said, "Nepal is known for being the India of the associates, it is very exciting to play cricket over here."

"Love playing in Nepal and come out here, looks like we have a good relation around in Nepal," he added.

The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 is a crucial stepping stone for teams looking for a spot in the prestigious ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. With Namibia, the Netherlands, and Nepal locking horns in the inaugural tri-series, every match carries immense weight, both in terms of points and qualification aspirations.

Nepal's emergence as a cricketing force in recent years has been remarkable, and hosting international fixtures further solidifies its status at the international level. The first game will see Nepal taking on Namibia at Kantipur on February 15th.

Fixtures of Tri-Series in Nepal:

15 Feb: Nepal vs Namibia
17 Feb: Nepal vs Netherlands
19 Feb: Namibia vs Netherlands
21 Feb: Nepal vs Namibia
23 Feb: Namibia vs Netherlands
25 Feb: Nepal vs Netherlands

Also read: Netherlands, Namibia set to tour Nepal for ODIs and T20I series