Kushal Malla is only 22 years old, but he is one of the most experienced international players in the Nepal team this Top End T20 Series. The batting all-rounder has already played 65 T20 internationals for Nepal and 40 ODIs. You may wonder how he has played so many matches at such a young age. Malla made his debut at 15 years and 340 days old. He holds the world record for the youngest player to score an ODI half-century. Before Covid was a thing, on a nice day in Kirtipur on February 8, 2020, Malla made his maiden appearance for Nepal against the USA. After a rocky start, Malla came in with his team under pressure at 4-47 and went on to score a superb 50 off 51 balls, including seven boundaries and three maximums. The current Chitwan Rhinos NPL player helped his side reach 190 on the scoreboard for the US to chase. Then came his time with the ball, and Malla also delivered yet again, taking 1-30 off 10 overs to help bowl out the US for 155 and score a win on debut.
Malla has since played 40 ODIs for Nepal and 65 T20Is. He has a century in both formats and nine fifties overall. Malla notched 135 runs last season, playing for the Rhinos in the NPL. He will certainly be a player to watch in the Study NPL Top End T20 Series this year.
Nepal gets its series underway with a game against local side NT Strike on Friday.
OTHER PLAYERS TO WATCH
Left arm orthodox spinner Shahab Alam is coming off a top NPL season with Kathmandu Gurkhas where he was the leading wicket-taker. Opening batter Kushal Bhurtel has 74 ODIs and 80 T20Is to his name. He scored two half-centuries last NPL season for Pokhara Avengers. Pawan Sarraf was also in form last NPL season for Karnali Yaks and will be another one to look out for.
The tournament is already underway! See the latest results here