Cricket is a religion in India, where millions cheer for stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. But beyond big teams like India, Australia, and England, smaller nations like Scotland and Nepal are making their mark in global cricket. These countries, known as associate nations by the International Cricket Council (ICC), may not have the fame or funds of full members, but their passion and progress are helping cricket grow worldwide. For Indian fans who love the game’s spirit, the story of Scotland and Nepal shows how cricket unites people, no matter the size of the nation.
What Are Associate Nations?
The ICC, which runs global cricket, has two types of members: full members and associate members. Full members, like India or England, play Test matches and have strong cricket systems. Associate nations, like Scotland and Nepal, are smaller cricket-playing countries with growing teams and fans. There are 94 associate members, but Scotland and Nepal stand out for their exciting performances in tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2.
These nations don’t have big stadiums or massive budgets, but their love for cricket is huge. For Indian audiences, think of them like underdog teams in the IPL—small but full of fight, ready to challenge the giants.
Scotland and Nepal: Rising Stars
Scotland and Nepal have become exciting names in associate cricket. Scotland, a country in Europe, has a small but dedicated cricket community. Nepal, nestled in the Himalayas, has made cricket its most popular sport, with fans packing grounds to cheer their team. Both nations play in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, a competition for associate teams to qualify for the World Cup, and their matches are often thrilling.
For example, in June 2025, Nepal beat Scotland in a nail-biting one-wicket win in Dundee, showing their grit. Indian fans, who love close matches like India vs Pakistan, can relate to the drama of these games. Scotland and Nepal don’t just play—they bring heart and hustle, making every run and wicket count.
Growing Cricket Globally
Associate nations like Scotland and Nepal are helping cricket reach new corners of the world. Unlike India, where cricket is everywhere, these countries face challenges like less funding, fewer grounds, and competition from sports like football. Yet, their efforts are spreading the game’s joy.
- Nepal’s Passion: Cricket came to Nepal through its elite in the 1940s, but now it’s a people’s game. The Cricket Association of Nepal, formed in 1946, has built local leagues, and fans treat players like heroes. Nepal’s success, like winning the 2010 ICC World Cricket League Division Five, shows their hunger to grow.
- Scotland’s Steady Rise: Scotland has quietly built a strong team, reaching global events like the 2014 ICC World Twenty20. Players like George Munsey hit big shots, proving associates can compete with bigger teams.
For Indian fans, this is like watching a small-town player shine in the Ranji Trophy. Scotland and Nepal are showing that cricket isn’t just for big nations—it’s for everyone.
Inspiring Young Players
Scotland and Nepal inspire young cricketers in places where cricket is new. In Nepal, kids dream of being like captain Rohit Paudel, who led his team to victory against Scotland in 2023. In Scotland, players like Michael Leask motivate locals to pick up a bat. Their success shows that you don’t need a big cricket history to make it big.
Indian fans can connect to this. Just as Sachin Tendulkar inspired millions in India, players from associate nations are heroes in their countries. Even cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has said that top teams should play associates more often to help them improve. This support means young players in Nepal or Scotland believe they can one day face India or Australia.
Challenging the Big Teams
Associate nations add spice to global cricket by challenging full members. Nepal and Scotland have pulled off upsets, like Nepal’s wins over Scotland in the World Cup League 2. These victories shake up the game, reminding big teams not to take associates lightly. For Indian fans, it’s like watching a new IPL team beat a champion side—unexpected and exciting.
By competing in leagues and global events, Scotland and Nepal also earn ODI status, letting them play more international matches. This exposure helps them learn from stronger teams, just as India grew by facing Australia and England decades ago.
Building a Bigger Cricket Family
The biggest role of associate nations is making cricket a truly global sport. In India, cricket is a way of life, but in Scotland and Nepal, it’s a growing dream. Their fans, like those in Kathmandu or Dundee, cheer as loudly as crowds in Mumbai. By playing in ICC events, they bring new audiences to the game, from Europe to the Himalayas.
They also push the ICC to be fairer. For example, debates about giving associates more World Cup spots show their growing influence. Indian fans, who know cricket’s emotional pull, can appreciate how these nations are fighting for their place in the sport’s heart.
A Bright Future for Cricket
Scotland and Nepal are proof that cricket’s spirit lives beyond traditional giants. Their role in global cricket is to inspire, compete, and grow the game. For Indian fans, their story is like watching a new player rise in the IPL—full of promise and passion. From Nepal’s thrilling wins to Scotland’s steady fight, these associate nations are writing their own cricket story, making the game richer for everyone.
Last Updated on: Sunday, June 8, 2025 5:12 pm by Deepak Goud Kondakal | Published by: Deepak Goud Kondakal on Sunday, June 8, 2025 5:12 pm | News Categories: News
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