Bhupendra GC, Kathmandu
Young wicketkeeper-batsman Arjun Saud has earned a place in Nepal’s squad for the upcoming Kenya tour, marking a significant milestone in his budding career. The 19-year-old secured his spot following a string of impressive performances in domestic cricket.
While his selection has brought immense excitement, it has also exposed a harsh reality, Arjun does not currently own a suitable bat to represent the national team.
Originally from Achham, Arjun was born and raised in Mumbai, India, in a financially struggling family. He is now based in Dhangadhi, where he continues to pursue his cricketing ambitions under difficult circumstances.
With his father working as a security guard in Mumbai and supporting the family on a limited income, Arjun finds it difficult to ask for financial help. In fact, given the family’s situation, he feels it is his responsibility to support them rather than add to their burden.
Despite reaching the national setup, Arjun currently cannot afford to buy a cricket bat, a basic necessity at the highest level of the sport.
To overcome this challenge, Arjun has requested a bat from Parag Mohan Madkaikar, a former Indian U-19 player. However, it remains uncertain when the bat will arrive from India.
For now, Arjun continues to wait, unsure of what he will do if the delivery is delayed.
At the elite level, players typically carry multiple bats to adapt during training and matches. Comfort and familiarity with a bat directly influence a batsman’s performance.
Yet, Arjun, despite being part of the senior national team is forced to rely on borrowed equipment. His situation highlights the broader financial challenges within Nepali cricket.
Arjun made his domestic debut in the Prime Minister’s Cup One-Day Tournament two years ago. Since then, his aggressive batting and sharp wicketkeeping have fast-tracked his rise to the senior team.
In domestic competitions, he often used bats borrowed from teammates, including Lokesh Bam. Even now, he faces the same reality at the international level.
Coach Digambar Pardale recently traveled from Mumbai to Dhangadhi to train Arjun for a week, boosting his confidence.
“I have known Arjun since childhood. Supporting such players is necessary. I want to see him play in the World Cup,” Pardale told Hamro Khelkud. Arjun holds his coach in the highest regard.
“He taught me cricket and even left his job for me. After my parents, he is like God to me,” Arjun said.
Pardale, who himself comes from a humble background, has dedicated his time to nurturing talented players lacking support.
Pardale emphasized the importance of proper gear at the international level.
“At speeds above 140 km/h, players need quality pads and helmets. Without a good bat, you cannot execute shots. Arjun needs sponsorship support,” he explained.
Arjun revealed that his current bats are damaged and unsuitable for competitive cricket.
“I have two bats, but both are broken. I’ve asked a friend in India for one. I don’t know if it will be new or used,” he said.
Pardale believes Arjun has the talent to one day feature in the IPL. He has advised him to balance aggression with situational awareness.
“Play explosively when required, but also build your innings. Focus on the team’s needs,” he said.
Performances That Speak
- Scored 64 runs off 80 balls against Sri Lanka in the U-19 Asia Cup in Sharjah
- Second-highest run-scorer in the U-19 National Tournament with 241 runs in 5 innings
- Brilliant 116 off 85 balls against Madhesh Pradesh, including 14 fours and 5 sixes
- Player of the Match against Gandaki with 68 runs
His wicketkeeping skills have also drawn praise for composure, stamina, and consistency.
Debut and Paras’s praise
Arjun first caught attention during his debut for Sudurpaschim against Bagmati, featuring stars like Paras Khadka and Gyanendra Malla. His quickfire 28-run knock, including three sixes, impressed Paras Khadka.
“What is your name? Where are you from?” Paras asked, later advising him to stay focused and composed. That moment remains a major source of inspiration for Arjun.
Who is Arjun Saud?
Born in 2003 to Ram Bahadur and Khakisara Saud, Arjun grew up in Mumbai’s challenging environment. Despite financial struggles, his love for cricket never faded.
He trained at Mumbai’s Police Gymkhana, sharing nets with players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Prithvi Shaw.
Journey from Mumbai to Nepal
Arjun moved to Nepal in 2019 after being invited by DPL chief Subash Shahi. He quickly made an impact, including a record-breaking fastest century in the Little Flower Premier League.
“My father has sacrificed everything for us. I want to build a house for my parents in Nepal,” he said emotionally.
“Arjun is full of talent, he need to handle himself” – Basant Shahi Thakuri
Former U-19 coach Basant Shahi Thakuri believes Arjun has immense potential but needs careful guidance.
“He is aggressive and positive, but must learn to adapt to situations. If handled well, he can achieve great things,” Thakuri noted.
Arjun is widely seen as one of Nepal’s most promising wicketkeeper-batsmen. With Nepal seeking long-term solutions in this role, he represents both present opportunity and future stability.
Known for his explosive batting, he has the ability to change the course of a match within a single over. However, patience both from the team and the player will be key to his development.
For now, as he waits for a bat to arrive, Arjun Saud also waits for his moment on the international stage a moment that could define not only his career but also inspire a generation.
