Cricket is a sport that has been growing in popularity and recognition in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. The Bhutanese cricket team, nicknamed The Dragons, represents the country in international cricket and is organised by the Bhutan Cricket Council Board (BCCB), which became an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2017.
The history of cricket in Bhutan dates back to the 1990s, when some Bhutanese students who studied in India brought back the game to their homeland. The BCCB was formed in 2001 and became an affiliate member of the ICC in the same year. The BCCB has been working hard to promote and develop cricket in Bhutan, especially among the youth and women. The BCCB runs various domestic tournaments and coaching camps across the country, and also provides scholarships and equipment to talented players.
The Bhutanese cricket team made its international debut in 2003, at the Emerging Nations Tournament organized by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Since then, the team has participated regularly in ACC tournaments, such as the ACC Trophy, the ACC Twenty20 Cup, and the ACC Eastern Region T20. The team has also competed in two World Cricket League events, WCL Division Eight in 2010 and 2012. The team has achieved some notable victories over other associate and affiliate teams, such as Iran, Myanmar, China, Maldives, and Thailand.
The Bhutanese cricket team gained full Twenty20 International (T20I) status in 2018, along with all other ICC members. The team played its first T20I match against Nepal in 2019, during the South Asian Games. The team has also qualified for the ICC 2024 T20 World Cup Asia Regional Qualifier B, which will be held in Malaysia in 2023.
The Bhutanese cricket team has shown great potential and improvement over the years, thanks to the efforts of the BCCB, the players, and the coaches. The current captain of the team is Suprit Pradhan, who is also the leading run-scorer for Bhutan in T20Is. The current coach of the team is Trishane Nonis, a former Sri Lankan cricketer who has been working with the BCCB since 2019.
The Bhutanese cricket team plays its home matches at various grounds across the country, such as Changlimithang Stadium and Pelkhil School Ground in Thimphu, Gelephu Stadium in Sarpang, Ugyen Academy Ground in Punakha, and Sherubtse College Ground in Trashigang. The Dechephu Lhakhang (temple) in Thimphu is considered as the spiritual home of Bhutan Cricket and players visit before every tournament to pray for each other’s well-being and performance.
The Bhutanese cricket team is a symbol of pride and passion for the people of Bhutan, who love and support their national team. The team is also a source of inspiration and motivation for many young aspiring cricketers in Bhutan, who dream of representing their country on the global stage. The team is determined to overcome the challenges and obstacles that come their way and achieve greater heights in cricket. The team is truly living up to its nickname of The Dragons, as they rise and roar in the world of cricket.
