Kathmandu, May 26
Tribhuvan University (TU) has moved forward with discussions to extend its agreement with the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) regarding the TU cricket ground.
University officials said preparations are underway for an understanding that would allow cricket matches to continue until an alternative venue is arranged.
Registrar of Tribhuvan University, Mahendra Prasad Chalise, said the university and CAN will hold discussions, but a long-term agreement will not be made.
“The cricket ground has been included in the government’s national pride projects. The university and CAN will hold discussions, but there will be no long-term agreement,” he said. “We will call CAN representatives and discuss a short-term arrangement.”
The university’s General Administration Division had issued a 35-day notice on April 17 to 18 organisations occupying encroached land, including CAN.
Following the expiration of the agreement with CAN, the university had initially issued a notice to vacate the ground. However, after Minister for Education and Sports Sasmita Pokharel publicly stated that the agreement would be extended, the university softened its stance.
Registrar Chalise said that matches will only be allowed with prior approval from the university.
“Until an alternative is arranged, permission from the university is mandatory for any match. CAN must submit its calendar in advance, and matches will be held only after approval,” he said. “Within the university, education is more important than cricket.”
The 25-year lease agreement between TU and CAN for the cricket ground expired in mid-May. CAN’s request for an extension has been forwarded to the Ministry of Education.
