London, June 4
The second generation of the Nepali diaspora in the UK is beginning to emerge. While the first generation was often focused on finding opportunities in a new environment, the younger generation is making progress in areas such as health, sports, and business.
One example is Aryan Dhungana, age 13. He currently plays for the Middlesex County Cricket U13 team. Aryan is the only player of Nepali origin representing the country. He had already played county cricket at the U10 level.
He started playing cricket at Ealing Cricket Club at the age of 8 and quickly established himself as a talented young cricketer.
At the age of 9, he was selected to represent the U10 Ealing Borough Cricket Team. In the same year, he was also selected for regional Middlesex cricket, highlighting his exceptional ability at a young age.
At just 10 years old, Aryan made his debut for the Middlesex County U11 cricket team.
Aryan is currently playing his fourth consecutive season with Middlesex County.
Until 2024, Aryan played as an all-rounder. His strength was left-arm fast bowling. During the winter training session that year, Middlesex coaches encouraged him to switch to left-arm spin bowling due to his physical development and increasing height. Although spin bowling was a new experience for him, he adapted remarkably well and finished the season as the second-highest wicket-taker for Middlesex U12.
Throughout his cricket journey, Aryan has contributed to many victories while representing both Middlesex County Cricket and Ealing Cricket Club, including important performances in finals.
Over the weekend (31st May), Aryan helped his team secure a victory against Hampshire Cricket Club at their home ground by taking five wickets.
Similarly, on May 29, playing for Ealing Cricket Club, he scored an unbeaten 33 runs off 26 balls and helped his team win the Area Cup.
According to his coaches, his performances demonstrate high skill, determination, adaptability, and strong team spirit.
Aryan is currently an eighth-grade student at St Benedict’s School in Ealing, where he also serves as a Sports Ambassador. “He is recognised as one of the school’s leading cricket players. Last year, even while competing in the U12 age group, he played a crucial role in helping the school win the U13 trophy,” says his father, Surendra Dhungana, proudly.
With a strong passion for the game, Aryan is emerging as a promising young cricketer in the UK.
“I’ve been interested in cricket since I was very young. I want to continue progressing in this field,” Aryan said. “If the opportunity comes, I would also love to go and play in Nepal someday.” He added that his family has provided tremendous encouragement and support throughout his cricket journey.
Aryan was born in London. His father, Surendra Dhungana, is an accountant, and his mother, Sunita, is a nurse. They moved to the UK from Kailali nearly three decades ago.
