Nepal start search for new coach following departure of Monty Desai
The Asian side are on the lookout for a new head coach following the decision to part ways with Monty Desai.
Monty Desai's reign as Nepal's men's coach is over with the Asian side deciding not to renew his contract.
Desai had a successful two-year stint in charge of Nepal, highlighted by leading the side to their second-ever appearance at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in 2024 courtesy of a top-two finish at the Asia Qualifier.
While Nepal failed to win a match at the tournament that was co-hosted by the USA and West Indies, the team went agonisingly close to a massive upset when they lost to eventual runners-up South Africa by one-run in St Vincent.
Desai took to social media to thank Nepal for the opportunity to coach the side, making special mention of the role the fans had in making his time in charge extra special.
"These two years have been unforgettable, filled with cherished moments and shared milestones. The Asia Cup qualification at TU Ground, where fans climbed trees and stood with umbrellas, and the World Cup qualification in Mulpani, where the crowd was electric, defined Nepal’s passion and resilience," Desai said as part of a lengthy statement.
"This journey had its highs and lows, and I’m grateful to have played a small role alongside CAN Management, selectors, players, coaches, officials, scorers, groundsmen, cameramen, commentators, and my captain, Rohit Paudel. Every individual contributed in their own way, and I deeply value the camaraderie we built."
Dear Nepal,
— montydesaiofficial (@montydesai) February 2, 2025
This is NOT a goodbye, but a heartfelt THANK YOU! 🙏🏾✨️
On January 10, 2023, I embraced the opportunity with Cricket Association of Nepal, stepping into the unknown with excitement and purpose, hoping to build a story that would leave a lasting impact on Nepal… pic.twitter.com/fMyN0taPl1
The search for a new coach for Nepal now begins, with one of their first tasks likely to be trying to ensure the side qualifies for a second consecutive T20 World Cup in 2026.
The 10th edition of the T20 World Cup will be held in India and Sri Lanka next year and Nepal will require a top three finish at the 2025 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia–East Asia-Pacific Regional Final in Oman in October to ensure they feature.