Sompal Kami has been a key figure in Nepali cricket, known for his consistent performances and ability to deliver in crucial moments. In 2024, he became the only Nepali player to participate in two ICC World Cups, having also represented Nepal in the 2014 T20 World Cup.
Kami played a vital role when Nepal made its ODI debut against the Netherlands in 2018. In the second match of the series, he delivered an all-round performance, scoring 61 runs off 46 balls and taking 1-41 with the ball. His efforts helped Nepal secure a thrilling one-run victory and level the series 1-1. This achievement made him the first Nepali player to win the Player of the Match award in ODIs. He also holds the record as Nepal’s first bowler to take a five-wicket haul in ODIs.
Initially selected as a bowler, Kami has grown into a dependable all-rounder. Over his career, he has taken 79 wickets and scored 691 runs in 61 ODIs. In T20 Internationals, he has picked up 70 wickets and added 329 runs in 74 matches.
Sompal’s cricketing journey began in Punjab, where his family had moved for work. Inspired by the Indian Premier League, he dreamed of making it big in cricket. His first big success came at the U-19 level, where he scored consecutive centuries in a regional tournament. His potential caught the attention of national coach Pubudu Dassanayake, who selected him for the 2014 ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers.
Social media also played a part in his early career, as a Nepali cricket fan group on Facebook brought him to the selectors notice. He soon became a key player for Region No. 3 Kathmandu, helping them finish second in the National Twenty20 tournament.
In 2019, Kami became the second Nepali cricketer, after Sandeep Lamichhane, to play in a T20 league abroad. He was signed by the Winnipeg Hawks for the Global T20 Canada for $3,000. Recently, he led the Karnali Yaks in the Nepal Premier League, guiding his team to third place and sharing the dressing room with Indian star Shikhar Dhawan.
From his humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of Nepali cricket, Sompal Kami’s journey is an inspiration. His hard work and determination continue to pave the way for future generations of Nepali cricketers.
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