11th Pakistan–Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament 2026 Concludes in Kathmandu
Kathmandu — The 11th edition of the Pakistan–Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament 2026 concluded with the final match and closing ceremony at the Pakistan Embassy premises in Kathmandu, marking the end of the tournament held from 7 to 15 February 2026.
The tournament featured 12 teams from Nepali cricket clubs, including the Pakistan Embassy Team. First held in 2014, the annual event has focused on cricket-based people-to-people ties between Pakistan and Nepal, alongside youth cricket development.
Baluwatar Cricket Academy won the tournament, receiving the championship trophy and a cash prize. The Pakistan Embassy Team finished as runner-up.
Trophies, medals, and cash awards were presented by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, H.E. Abrar H. Hashmi, in the presence of invited guests.
The closing ceremony was attended by members of the diplomatic community, including the Ambassadors of Bangladesh and China, the Secretary General of SAARC, and the Charge d’Affaires of Malaysia. Also present were former and current officials of the Cricket Association of Nepal, leaders of the Pakistan–Nepal Alumni Network, the Nepal–Pakistan Friendship and Cultural Association, and the Nepal–Pakistan Youth Council, along with representatives from media and civil society, members of the Pakistani community, and Pakistan Embassy officials and families.
Seven Nepali cricketers who had participated in earlier editions of the tournament and later progressed to Nepal’s national-level teams were specially honored.
In remarks during the event, Mr. Iqbal Haider, Counsellor (Political & Education), said the Pakistan Embassy would continue promoting cricket at the grassroots level, citing the tournament’s role in supporting emerging talent in Nepal.
In his closing address, Ambassador Abrar Hashmi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening youth engagement and sporting exchanges between the two countries. He also announced that the 12th edition, scheduled for 2027, will expand to 16 participating teams.
The Ambassador congratulated the participating teams and acknowledged supporting partners IME Global Bank and Filli Cafe, as well as broadcasting partners Action TV and Dish Home Media Network for providing live coverage. He also thanked the organizing team, match officials, groundsmen, and support staff involved in conducting the tournament.
Sports