Dilip Nath is a member of the historic team which achieved One-day International (ODI) status for Nepal in 2018. The 23-year-old made his List A debut for Nepal against the United Arab Emirates in the 2015–17 ICC World Cricket League Championship on 6 December 2017. In January 2018, he was named in Nepal's squad for the 2018 ICC World Cricket League Division Two tournament. The Division 2 campaign kick-started Nepal’s road to ODI status with a trip to Zimbabwe securing the feat.

 

The player from Dadeldhura, the far-western part of Nepal, is hailed as a rare talent. The left-handed batsman is unique in Nepal’s context with ability to keep wickets and open the batting. The combination of three skills make him one of the best utility player to have in the side. A regular in franchise cricket, Nath also has a permanent job at Nepal Police Club, the departmental team.

 

After the Zimbabwe tour, Nath lost his position in the Nepal national cricket team due to poor form and injury. He continues to work hard to make a comeback in the side. The kind of talent Nath possess, he will be a handy addition in any side he represents.

 

He so far has played seven matches for Chitwan Tigers in Everest Premier League spanning two seasons. He is more than determined to do well and create an impact for Tigers in this third season for the franchise.

 

As Dilip recalls,

 

Like many of us, I didn’t know Nepali cricket existed when we were growing up due to no live telecasts on television. Nepal’s participation in 2014 World T20 was huge eye opener for all of us. I used to play cricket as recreational break but Nepal national cricket team playing the world cup inspired me. It was then in 9th standard, I seriously started to play cricket and tried to learn the depths of it.

 

It is an interesting story how I became a left-handed batsman and it is the only thing I do left-handed despite being a left-hander by birth. But my mom used to hate it. She used to make me use my right-hand. Hence, I eventually learned using my right-hand. It became my dominant hand. But during cricket, it was the only time mom wasn’t around as I batted left-handed and eventually became a left-hander.

 

Similarly, I wasn’t a natural wicket-keeper at first. I used to field well and bowl occasionally for my school and clubs. But during my first selection games representing Dadeldhura, then coach, Mahendra sir (Lok) made me a wicket-keeper which kick-started my journey.

 

I loved the challenge that came as a wicket-keeper batsman. I know that it is one of the most difficult jobs in cricket but I relished it. I enjoyed it which helped me pave my way to the national team. But unfortunate injuries and more than that, not being able to understand those injuries, manage my workload affected me and my form. Getting in and out of the team is part and parcel of sportsperson’s life. But I feel better now and determined more than ever.

 

I will forever be grateful of my first coach Deepak Sir (Malla). He selflessly groomed me. Be it day or night, he was always available and pushing me to work hard. Go that extra mile to be a player who could represent the national team. He is the main reason I am a cricketer today.