Bhutan’s Under-19 Women’s National Cricket Team has begun an intensive training camp at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground. The young cricketers are preparing for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier Asia 2026 to be held in Hong Kong, China, next month.
As the evening sun sets over the Gelephu International Cricket Ground, Bhutan’s young cricketers are already deep into training.
Fourteen players selected from the recent national selection camp in Thimphu have gathered here for the training camp that will continue until the 6th of April.
The players are spending hours sharpening their fielding and catching skills, practising throws and improving coordination on the field.
Head Coach Kencho Norbu says the team will focus on improving both technical skills and match strategies during the three-week training camp.
“We train for about two hours every evening, and we have a three-week training camp here in Gelephu. During this time, we are focusing on improving the players’ skills and tactical understanding. We are positive and looking forward to giving a strong fight against our opponents.”
Likewise, players say they are determined to give their best and compete strongly in the upcoming matches.
“Our goal is to win every match in the competition. Looking at the team, I am confident that we can compete well and give a strong challenge to all our opponents. We will give our hundred per cent in the qualifiers,” said Sangay Yangzom, a player.
After the training camp in Gelephu, the team will travel to Thailand to compete in a five-nation U19 Women’s T20 Series from the 11th to the 19th of April.
The tournament will serve as preparation before the team heads to Hong Kong for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier Asia 2026 from the 20th to the 29th of April.
Placed in Pool A, Bhutan will face Thailand, Myanmar and Kuwait. The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027 will be jointly hosted by Bangladesh and Nepal.
Passang Dorji, Gelephu
