Kushal Bhurtel, born on January 22, 1997, is a name that resonates with cricket enthusiasts not just in Nepal but around the world. This Nepalese cricketer has earned a special place in the sport’s history by achieving a remarkable feat – being the only cricketer globally to score three consecutive half-centuries in T20 International (T20I) matches. Known for his aggressive batting style, Bhurtel has emerged as a prominent attacking opener in the world of cricket.
Early Beginnings
Kushal Bhurtel’s journey in cricket began with aspirations and dreams that knew no boundaries. He quickly rose through the ranks and showcased his potential in various cricketing tournaments. His talent was evident from an early age, and he was named in Nepal’s squad for the 2016 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, where he gained valuable experience that would shape his cricketing career.
List A Debut and South Asian Games Success
In November 2019, Bhurtel made his List A debut for Nepal against India in the Emerging Teams Cup. This marked his entry into the professional cricketing circuit and hinted at the promising future that lay ahead. Additionally, he was part of Nepal’s men’s cricket team at the 2019 South Asian Games, where the team secured a bronze medal by defeating the Maldives in a gripping contest.
T20I Stardom and ICC Recognition
April 17, 2021, marked a historic moment for Kushal Bhurtel as he made his T20I debut for Nepal against the Netherlands. In a spectacular debut performance, Bhurtel not only played a pivotal role in Nepal’s victory but also top-scored with an impressive 62 runs. This remarkable start earned him the title of “Man of the Series” in the Tri-Nation Series, amassing a total of 278 runs with an astounding average of 69.50.
Following his standout performances in the tri-series, Bhurtel’s cricketing prowess did not go unnoticed. In May 2021, he was nominated for the ICC’s Men’s Player of the Month award, a testament to his consistent excellence on the international stage.
Stepping into the ODI Arena
August 2021 marked another significant chapter in Bhurtel’s cricketing journey when he was named in Nepal’s One Day International (ODI) squad. His ODI debut against Papua New Guinea on September 7, 2021, showcased his versatility as a cricketer, making him a valuable asset to the Nepalese team in multiple formats of the game.
Century in T20I
In February 2022, Bhurtel was named in Nepal’s T20I squad for the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier A tournament in Oman. It was during this tournament that he etched his name in the annals of cricketing history by scoring his first century in a T20I match. His remarkable feat against the Philippines underscored his incredible batting prowess and hinted at even greater achievements in the future.
Conclusion
Kushal Bhurtel’s incredible journey from a young aspiring cricketer in Nepal to becoming a record-breaking T20I opener is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and innate talent. His ability to consistently deliver outstanding performances has not only earned him accolades but also made him a source of inspiration for aspiring cricketers in Nepal and beyond. As he continues to shine on the international stage, the cricketing world eagerly awaits more remarkable innings from this extraordinary talent. Kushal Bhurtel is undoubtedly a name to watch out for in the world of cricket.
