KATHMANDU, Feb 7 – The 11th edition of the Pakistan-Nepal Friendship T20 Cricket Tournament officially began today, following an inauguration ceremony led by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, H.E. Mr. Abrar H. Hashmi.

The annual event, organized to foster bilateral relations through sports, has drawn participation from 12 teams this year, including 10 cricket clubs and two institutional teams representing the Pakistan Embassy and Global IME Bank.

During the opening session, Ambassador Hashmi highlighted the significance of the tournament beyond the boundary lines. “Cricket is not just a sport; it also serves as a platform to bring people together and fosters a spirit of camaraderie and teamwork,” Hashmi said. He wished the teams an exciting week of competition and thanked the organizers and partners for maintaining the tradition.

The opening ceremony was attended by dignitaries and representatives from the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), Global IME Bank, the Youth Council, and the Pakistan Nepal Alumni Network (PNAN). Guests praised the Embassy’s consistent initiative in organizing the event, noting its role in connecting the youth of both nations.

The tournament is scheduled to conclude on February 15, 2026, with a grand finale featuring trophy and cash award distributions. Cricket enthusiasts can watch all matches live on “Action Sports HDI” and various social media platforms.