CAN decides not to Renew Contract of Coach Monty Desai

Nepal’s cricket governing body has decided to part ways with coach Monty Desai.

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) decided not to renew the contract of the men’s national cricket team head coach Monty Desai after the completion of his two-year tenure.

According to officials from the CAN, a board meeting of the cricket governing body decided not to extend coach Desai’s contract after it expired. 

“It was not a sudden decision. A board meeting held earlier had decided not to offer him a contract extension,” CAN Board Member Chhumbi Lama told Republica, “There is no reason to think negatively of him, the decision was more of a mutual agreement.”

Sources from the CAN revealed that coach Desai was facing scrutiny from the board due to the national cricket team’s underperformance in the T-20 World Cup 2024 and the dismal performance in the ICC League 2. 

Coach Desai is adored by the Nepali cricket fans for multiple instances of leading the national team to historic moments with his ‘one-ball battles’ philosophy.

CAN took to Facebook on Saturday evening to thank the coach for his contributions to Nepali cricket. The post read, “From defending our ODI status against the odds to locking horns against Asian giants India and Pakistan at the Asia Cup, to dancing on the World Cup stage with passion and commitment, you’ve made Nepal’s cricketing dreams soar. Your belief, your smiles, and your heart built not just a team, but a lasting LEGACY.” 

The association also wished Coach Desai for all his future endeavors. The Facebook post read, “As you embark on your next adventure, know that our 12th Men will always echo your name – and our gratitude will be as endless as the memories you’ve gifted us.”