February 21, 2006- On the way to my workplace, I was amazed by the volume of crowd I encountered near Dashratha Rangashala, the national stadium. These days it is not a new sight as such masses are quite often seen on the streets protesting against the current government. But this time it was different. They were there as spectators of the Martyr's Memorial San Miguel League "A" Division Final match.

At present state, when Nepal has been struck with political and economical turbulences and all the other sectors lying helplessly, Nepalese sports council stands out exemplarily. They have significantly improved the level of professionalism in Soccer and Cricket. The jam packed final stadium, with more than 1 lack 20 thousand spectators was the proved it. Skillful players from African countries are accepting contracts with various clubs like Manang Marshyangdi and Brigade Boys. I was specially impressed by the prizes that were awarded in the tournament. It had never been this huge. Manang Marshyangdi, the victorious team, received NRs. 10,00,000 and the runner ups were given 7 and 5 lacks each. And the highlight of the day was the "best player of the tournament" award. Upendra Man Singh, a brilliant goal-keeper of 3-star club and ex-captain of our national football team, got the big prize- a Toyota Car, worth NRs. lacks and 50 thousand. Other five exclusive players received a Yamaha motorcycle each.

Nepali Cricket Team may not be a formidable opponent in the World cricket arena but when it comes to Under-19 games, we are among the bests. Nepalese U-19 cricket team got victory over the mighty test playing nation New Zealand and won its first World Cup Cricket Plate Championship. Nepal also beat South Africa another nation with test playing status in the semis by 2 runs. Under the training of Coach Roy Dias from Sri Lanka, youngsters have really grown up as mature cricketers and are paving the path for bight future ahead at international level.

The sporting heroes of Nepal have set up an example of the level that can be achieved when we focus on what are doing and what we should do in the best interest of the country.

Sports sector stands out posted by Pradeep Chand @ 11:21 PM

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