Nepal spinner Sandeep Lamichhane says he just wants to make his country proud in the Cricket World Cup qualifier in Zimbabwe.
Lamichhane will become the first man from Nepal to play in the Indian Premier League when he turns out for the Delhi Daredevils this season but he insists he isn’t in the game for the glory and fame.
Speaking to icc-cricket.com Lamichhane said: “I don’t run for the name and fame.
“Everywhere, be it in Nepal or outside, I just remind myself of the hard work that I have put in over the last few years.
“I just want to keep myself simple and calm. I have worked hard for these moments, and I have a long way to go. I am just taking it as an opportunity to make my country proud.”
The 17-year-old Lamichhane knows that the Cricket World Cup Qualifier will be tough with four Test playing nations headlining the tournament that offers just two spots at the 2019 World Cup.
He added: “Back home everyone is praying for our success.
“We know it is very tough to make the World Cup, because only two teams will make it.
“We are just pushing ourselves and working hard day-by-day and just trying to get in good shape. It is our dream to play the Cricket World Cup and hopefully we will make it.
“To get a chance to play in the World Cup Qualifier is huge.
“We have worked hard for this, have put in a lot of effort back home. Not just me, everyone is confident. We beat UAE in the warm-ups earlier, and this will give a boost to all the players.”
Nepal begin their campaign against the hosts Zimbabwe on March 4 at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
