Nepal and Kuwait forge groundbreaking bilateral cricket series from 2026

In a landmark move for Associate cricket, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and the Kuwait Cricket Board have agreed to launch an annual bilateral series for both men’s and women’s teams starting in 2026. Finalized during the ICC AGM in Singapore, the agreement includes a minimum of three T20 Internationals each year, with the possibility of additional 50-over matches, to be played on a home-and-away basis.

The objective of this affiliation is to create regular international exposure for two of the potential Associate teams in Asia. For Nepal, coming off their appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, this agreement will provide regular opportunities to play at the top levels of international cricket, and also prepare and condition their squads leading into global qualifiers. For Kuwait, it provides a chance to experience sport at a higher level regularly, as they prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Asia Regional Qualifiers.

Crucially, the agreement gives equal importance to women’s cricket. Both boards have committed to featuring women's teams annually, a significant step in promoting gender inclusion and nurturing the women’s game in regions where such exposure has traditionally been limited.

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Nepal and Kuwait to play yearly cricket series from 2026, boosting development and preparation for ICC events

The memories to be experienced from this partnership will (hopefully) lead to wider development outcomes. Nepal should expect benefits in stadium infrastructure development as well as closer connections with domestic and international formats as it plays matches, and benefits from the income flow of tourism and the local ownership. In Kuwait, with a sizeable active Nepali population base, matches should attract a following, like an international event with chants, song, and dance creating a carnival around cricket.

The bilateral matches also provide an important opportunity pathway for player development, given that both sides were placed in the same group for the 2026 Asia Regional Qualifiers. This not only increases the competitive nature of the opportunity, but also helps create a narrative of these important moves into ICC events.

In summary, the partnership between Nepal and Kuwait is a thoughtful and proactive initiative, one that highlights how Associate members can collaborate to grow and develop the sport, enhance their level of competitiveness, and develop the global appeal of cricket, and becomes a useful template for others.