The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has decided not to renew the contract of men’s national team head coach Monty Desai. His two-year tenure recently ended, and officials stated that the decision was mutual and planned in advance.
No Contract Renewal for Monty Desai
Monty Desai, who took charge of Nepal’s cricket team in 2022, will not continue as head coach. CAN confirmed the decision, stating that it was not made suddenly but was agreed upon by both parties.
“Head coach Shri Mrugang Jagdish Desai, known as Monty Desai, was appointed for a two-year term. That term has now ended,” CAN spokesperson Chhumbi Lama said in an official statement. “The Cricket Association of Nepal has decided not to renew his contract.”
Lama further clarified that the decision was made in a board meeting held earlier. “There is no reason to think negatively of him. The decision was more of a mutual agreement,” he added.
Achievements Under Monty Desai
During his tenure, Monty Desai played a key role in improving Nepal’s performance on the international stage. Under his leadership, Nepal qualified for the 2023 Asia Cup and secured a spot in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier. His focus on team-building and player development helped young cricketers gain confidence on the field.
One of his most notable successes was guiding Nepal to win the ACC Premier Cup, which earned them a place in the Asia Cup. His coaching methods and leadership brought structure to Nepal’s squad, making them more competitive against higher-ranked teams.
What’s Next for Nepal Cricket?
With Desai’s departure, CAN will now look for a new head coach. The association has not yet announced any potential candidates. However, officials have indicated that they will prioritize someone who can continue Nepal’s upward trajectory in international cricket.
CAN is expected to take its time in selecting a new coach, ensuring that the chosen candidate aligns with Nepal’s cricketing vision. The new coach will have a crucial role in preparing the team for upcoming tournaments, including the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers and regional championships.
Monty Desai’s Future Plans
Desai has not made any public statements about his future plans. However, given his experience with associate cricket teams, he may take up coaching roles elsewhere. Before joining Nepal, he had worked with Afghanistan, the West Indies, and other teams in different capacities.
Monty Desai’s exit marks the end of an important chapter for Nepal cricket. His tenure saw remarkable growth, and fans will remember his contributions to the team’s success. As CAN begins the search for a new coach, the focus remains on maintaining and building upon the momentum gained in the past two years.
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