The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) on Sunday announced the squad for the upcoming Canada and Scotland tour.
Nepal is touring Canada to play the bilateral series ahead of Scotland’s tour under the Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 fixtures.
Young and promising all-rounder Basir Ahamad received his maiden call-up to the national squad for a overseas tour, earlier he played three T20s and one List A match against Zimbabwe A in May at Kirtipur.
Despite representing Nepal in age group, Basir hit the limelight after being adjudged as player of the tournament in Nepal Pro Club Championship in April. His 119 runs with an average of 39.66 and 10 wickets in just five matches helped Rupandehi XI clinch the title by defeating Malaysia XI.
After creating a huge buzz among Nepali supporters, Basir, 19, played three T20s and one List A match for Nepal against Zimbabwe A, where he picked up three wickets in two innings in a T20 match.
Cricnepal’s Correspondent, Sandip Poudel talked with Basir Ahamad and did a Q&A session. Here’s how Basir responded to Sandip’s question:
Q1. Tell us about your cricketing journey, and how it started?
“Well, I started my cricketing career at Lumbini Nawa Yuva Cricket Club. Later, Basanta (Shahi Thakuri) sir selected me and I started playing for his team, Tirupati at the club level. Eventually, I was selected for the province team”.
Q2. Which cricketer do you idolize?
“Shakib Al Hasan is my cricketing inspiration. I really love Rohit Poudel from Nepal”.
Q3. You prefer calling yourself a batting all-rounder or bowling all-rounder?
Batting All-rounder
Q4. You hit the limelight after being adjudged as player of the tournament in the Nepal Pro Club Championship in April, how important was that series for you?
“It certainly was a big tournament for me and of course a huge platform. My plan was to perform well and help my team to clinch the title and later play for National Team”.
Q5. How was the experience of playing for Nepal against a strong Zimbabwe A team at the home ground?
“I played with seniors and they were very helpful and supportive. It was a big game for me which made me a bit nervous in the first match, however, I gained some confidence afterwards, and was a great experience for me”.
Q6. Were you expecting a National call-up after being left out in the USA tour?
“I was not sure but, to be honest, I was optimistic and hoping for my name”.
Q7. Scottish conditions favour Pace bowlers, Do you think you will get a debut match?
“I have good batting ability too and I am desperate to win the match for my country. I think I will get a chance”.
Q8. At just 19 years of age do you think you are mature enough to play for Nepal against tough teams like Canada, Scotland, and Namibia?
“I have played U-19 Asia Cup where we played against quality sides like Bangladesh and Srilanka. But things are different in bigger stages so, I have worked hard and am ready as well as excited for the upcoming challenges”.
Q9. How are you preparing yourself for a huge task ahead?
“You need to work hard to get a spot on National Team which I am obviously doing. I will now spend more time on the field to make myself ready”.
Q10. Any special message for your fans and well-wishers?
“Everyone is happy to see my name on the squad. I thank all of my well-wishers and promise to do much better in the coming days”.
