Players to Watch

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By Narayan Upadhyay

Indu Barma

Born: September 29, 1997
Role: All-rounder (Right-handed batter, Right-arm medium-fast bowler)
Current Position: Captain of Nepal Women’s National Cricket Team

Indu Barma is a celebrated all-rounder and a prominent figure in Nepalese women’s cricket. She made her international debut on January 12, 2019, in Nepal’s first-ever Twenty20 International (T20I) match against China during the Thailand Women’s T20 Smash. Since then, she has consistently performed with both bat and ball, becoming a vital asset for the team.

In her T20I career, Barma has played 55 matches, scoring 645 runs and taking 26 wickets. Among her many achievements, her unbeaten 55 against Qatar in 2021 and her impressive bowling figures of 3/5 against Bahrain in 2023 stand out. The latter performance earned her the Player of the Match award during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Region Qualifier.

On November 9, 2023, Indu Barma was appointed as the captain of the Nepal Women’s National Cricket Team, succeeding Rubina Chhetry. Her appointment reflects her leadership qualities and the trust placed in her by the cricketing community.

Barma has represented Nepal in major tournaments, including the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers, and continues to inspire young cricketers in Nepal with her dedication and talent.

Puja Mahato

Born: February 17, 2006
Role: All-rounder (Right-handed batter, Right-arm medium bowler)
Current Position: Captain of Nepal U-19 Women’s Cricket Team

Puja Mahato is a rising star in Nepali cricket, known for her leadership skills and all-round performances. Born in Mahottari, Nepal, Puja made her international debut in T20Is on August 22, 2023, against Hong Kong. As the captain of the Nepal U-19 team, she led her side to the 2025 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, showcasing her ability to guide a young team on the global stage.

As of January 2025, Puja has played 20 WT20Is for the senior national team, scoring 185 runs and claiming 16 wickets. She achieved her career-best performances in the qualifiers, with an unbeaten 130 and a five-wicket haul (5/8) against Kuwait.

Known for her calm and supportive leadership style, Puja draws inspiration from Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma, aiming to emulate his "Captain Cool" persona. Her ability to motivate her team and excel under pressure has earned her praise from teammates and coaches alike.

Dubbed the "diamond" of Nepali women’s cricket, Puja continues to be a pivotal figure, inspiring a new generation of cricketers and contributing to Nepal’s growing reputation in the international cricketing arena.

Rubina Chhetry

Born: November 26, 1993
Role: All-rounder (Right-handed batter, Right-arm medium bowler)
Notable Achievements: First Nepali woman cricketer to take a T20I hat-trick

Rubina Chhetry is one of the most accomplished cricketers in Nepal’s history and a former captain of the Nepal Women’s National Cricket Team. Appointed captain in 2012, she led the team for over a decade, achieving numerous milestones, including a bronze medal at the 13th South Asian Games in 2019.

Rubina made history as the first Nepali bowler to take a T20I hat-trick, achieving this feat against Kuwait in 2019. She also took a five-wicket haul on her debut in 2009, a remarkable performance that earned her the Player of the Match title.

Under her leadership, Nepal participated in the 2012 Women’s Twenty20 Asia Cup, and she captained Kat Queens Kathmandu, Nepal’s first women’s franchise cricket team. Rubina’s dedication and trailblazing career have left an indelible mark on Nepali cricket.

Manisha Upadhyay

Born: February 15, 2004
Role: All-rounder (Left-handed batter, Left-arm medium bowler)

Manisha Upadhyay is a promising young cricketer who has quickly established herself as a key player in Nepali women’s cricket. She made her debut for the national team in 2023 at the age of 19 and has since represented Nepal in various domestic and international tournaments.

Manisha’s performances have been consistently impressive. She boasts a batting average of 26.8 and a bowling average of 18.5. Her standout bowling performances include figures of 4/7 against Koshi Women and 3/12 against Sudurpaschim during the Prime Minister Cup in Dhangadi.

Her talent and work ethic have made her a valuable asset to Nepali cricket, and she continues to be a bright prospect for the future.

Mamta Kumari Chaudhary

A middle-order batswoman Mamata was born on September 27, 1998, she began her cricket career at a young age and has since become an integral part of the Nepal women's cricket team.

She made her international debut in a T20I match against Malaysia on January 13, 2019. Throughout her career, she has been a consistent performer, showcasing her talent and dedication on the field. Mamta has represented Nepal in various international tournaments, including the South Asian Games, where she helped the team secure a bronze medal. She has played in 10 T20I matches.

Her performances in domestic cricket have also been noteworthy. She has played for teams such as the Armed Police Force (APF) Women, Bagmati Women, and SudurPashchim Women. Some of her notable performances include a match-winning 78 against Karnali Women and a steady 36 against SudurPashchim Women.

Her dedication to the sport and consistent performances make her a valuable asset to the Nepal women's cricket team. Mamta continues to inspire many young cricketers in Nepal with her passion and commitment.

Alisha Kumari Yadav

Alisha is an emerging talent in Nepalese cricket, celebrated for her prowess as a right-handed batter and wicketkeeper. Born on October 22, 2006, in Bara, Nepal, Alisha has quickly risen through the ranks to become a key figure in the Nepal U-19 women's cricket team and a promising player in the senior national squad.

Her cricketing journey began at an early age, playing in school tournaments before representing her district in local competitions. Alisha made her debut for the Nepal U-19 team in 2024, where she impressed with her dependable batting and sharp wicketkeeping skills.

Throughout her career, Alisha has delivered consistent performances, with highlights including a remarkable knock of 79 runs against Malaysia U-19 and standout displays behind the stumps. Inspired by the legendary MS Dhoni, she strives to emulate his calm demeanor and tactical brilliance on the field.

As of January 2025, Alisha has already featured in several international matches for Nepal’s senior team. Her quick reflexes, steady batting, and unwavering dedication have earned her recognition as one of the brightest prospects in Nepali women's cricket.

With her talent and determination, Alisha is undoubtedly a player to watch as she continues to shape the future of Nepali cricket.