From Dhangadhi nets to the big stage: the teenage quick everyone is talking about

Two years ago, Kamal Bista was bowling in the nets at his local club in Dhangadhi on matting laid over concrete. This season he has been the fastest bowler in the league.

The 19-year-old was clocked at 141 km/h against Kathmandu Thunder, and his three wickets against Janakpur Strikers included two batters bowled by full, fast deliveries.

Bista was picked up at a district trial in 2024, where coaches noticed his speed before his accuracy. He spent last season with the Stallions as a net bowler, working on his run-up and his yorker.

"He was quick from day one," said Stallions coach Kiran Bhatta. "The work has been about giving him control, and he has listened."

It has not all gone smoothly. Bista has gone for more than ten an over in two of his three games, and batters have started to wait for his slower ball. The coaching staff say that is part of the learning.

Stallions face Butwal Warriors on Sunday night, and Bista will lead the attack again. If he keeps improving at this rate, the national selectors will be watching closely.