Monty Desai (Mrugang Jagadish Desai), who took charge as Nepal's national cricket team head coach in 2023. Prior to his journey in Nepal, Desai had an impressive coaching career, including serving as the head coach of Canada at the ICC World Cricket League Division 2, Afghanistan's batting coach at the 2018 ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers, and the batting coach for the UAE at an ICC T20 World Cup qualification event.
He also worked with Indian regional teams and IPL franchises like Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Gujarat Lions (GL). Desai had previously contributed as the batting consultant for the Nepali U-19 team in 2017 and worked with the national team during the 2014 ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers. Nepal showed outstanding performances in the matches under the guidance of Monty Desai.
January 10, 2023—Desai was appointed as the coach of Nepali national cricket team with a two-year contract. He replaced Manoj Prabhakar, who vacated the post in December 2022.
February 6, 2023—appointed as head coach of Nepal’s men's international cricket team
Two years spent in Nepal were unforgettable: Monty Desai
2023 (CWC League 2)—Nepal secured their ODI status by winning crucial matches against Scotland, Namibia, and UAE, eventually securing third place in the league and a spot in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023.
April 2023—Nepal won the ACC Premier Cup, defeating UAE in the final, and secured qualification for the Asia Cup 2023.
June 2023—Nepal made their debut in the Cricket World Cup Qualifiers, where they faced challenges but secured victories against the USA and UAE.
August 2023—Nepal participated in their first-ever Asia Cup, facing cricket giants, India and Pakistan. Despite tough losses, Nepal's performance drew significant international praise.
September 2023—Nepal's T20 team set records during the Asian Games, including the fastest T20I century by Kushal Malla and a 300+ score against Mongolia.
November 2023- Nepal qualified for the T20 World Cup 2024 by finishing as runners-up in the Asia Qualifiers, defeating UAE in the semifinal.
2023 (U19 Team)—Nepal's U19 team secured a spot in the U19 World Cup 2024 by defeating UAE and winning the ACC U19 Premier Cup. They also participated in the U19 Asia Cup, gaining valuable exposure.
February 2, 2025- CAN bids farewell to Desai deciding not to renew his contract.
