KATHMANDU: The Nepali national cricket team is all set to kick off its campaign in the SMS Friendship Cup T20 tri-series against Gujarat Cricket Association in India.

Scheduled to commence at 2:45 PM, the match marks the beginning of an exciting journey for Nepal as they prepare to take on Baroda and Gujarat in Vapi, India.

The seven-match tournament, starting from March 31 and culminating in the final on April 7, promises thrilling cricket action as each team faces off against the others twice.

The top two teams will then vie for the coveted title.

Ranked 16th in the ICC rankings, Nepal views this tournament as a crucial stepping stone in their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the United States and the West Indies.

In Pool D of the T20 World Cup, Nepal finds itself pitted against formidable opponents including South Africa, Bangladesh, Netherlands, and Sri Lanka.

Nepal’s fixture in the SMS Friendship Cup includes clashes against Gujarat on March 31, Baroda on April 2, another face-off with Gujarat on April 3, and a final encounter against Baroda on April 5, culminating in the much-anticipated final showdown on April 7.