Sher Malla’s Indian Connection Makes Global Headlines
Sher Malla’s Indian connection has become a proud talking point after the young Nepal spinner created history in the T20 World Cup 2026. Making his international debut against England at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium on February 8, Malla took a wicket on the very first ball of his career in international cricket.
Though Nepal narrowly lost the thrilling contest by four runs, the 19-year-old spinner’s remarkable debut performance has sparked celebrations not only in Nepal but also in Ludhiana, India — where his cricket journey began.
From Ludhiana School to World Cup Stage
Sher Bahadur Malla studied at the Government Senior Secondary Model School, PAU (Punjab Agricultural University), in Ludhiana from Class 6 to 10. His father worked as a security guard in a mall in the city and enrolled him in the government school.
It was here that his cricketing foundation was laid.
Under the guidance of Coach Anil Kumar, Malla trained rigorously for nearly five years. According to his coach, his talent was evident from the beginning:
Reached State Level Under-14 in his first year
Played Under-16 State Level the following year
Competed at Under-19 State Level and was selected for a National Camp
After completing Class 10 in 2019, Malla moved to Nepal. The COVID-19 pandemic followed soon after, but the setback didn’t slow him down. Instead, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Rising Star in Nepal Cricket Team
Back in Nepal, Sher Malla quickly made his mark in domestic cricket. He played for Janakpur Bolts in the Nepal Premier League and was part of their title-winning campaign in 2024. In 2025, he joined Lumbini Lions, where he:
Took 17 wickets in the season
Became the highest wicket-taker
Won the Emerging Player of the Tournament award
He also captained Nepal’s Under-19 B team and represented Sudurpaschim Province, showcasing leadership skills at a young age.
Historic Debut at T20 World Cup 2026
Sher Malla’s Indian connection added emotional depth to his debut in Mumbai. Facing England in Nepal’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener, he stunned the cricketing world by taking a wicket on his very first delivery.
He became only the second Nepali bowler to achieve this milestone — a feat previously accomplished by former captain Paras Khadka.
Malla finished with figures of 1 wicket for 35 runs in three overs. Despite Nepal falling short while chasing 184, losing by just four runs, the team won global praise for pushing England to the edge.
This near-victory echoes Nepal’s previous T20 World Cup heartbreak, where they lost to South Africa by just one run in the last edition.
Emotional Moment with Ludhiana School
After the match, Sher Malla spoke to his school principal, Dr. Pradeep Kumar Sharma, via video call. The principal called him the “star of PAU School” and promised him a grand welcome whenever he visits Ludhiana.
For the Ludhiana school community, Sher Malla’s Indian connection is a matter of immense pride — proof that grassroots training can produce international stars.
Why This Story Matters Now
With the T20 World Cup 2026 underway, stories like Sher Malla’s inspire young cricketers across South Asia. His journey highlights:
The power of grassroots coaching
Cross-border cricketing bonds between India and Nepal
The rise of emerging cricket nations
Nepal’s next match is against Italy on February 12, and all eyes will be on the young spinner once again.
Sher Malla’s Indian connection is more than just a background detail — it is a reminder that talent nurtured at the school level can shine on the world’s biggest stage.
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