Cricket, Culture, and Diplomacy: UK Ambassador Rob Fenn Takes the Pitch in Kathmandu
Kathmandu, May 31 — In an inspiring display of sportsmanship and diplomacy, British Ambassador to Nepal Rob Fenn joined his Indian and Nepali counterparts on the cricket field to inaugurate the 1st Indian Ambassador’s Cricket Tournament at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground on Friday, May 31.
Known for his relatable style and deep engagement with Nepali culture, Ambassador Fenn’s presence on the pitch added warmth and global character to the opening of the four-day friendly tournament. Alongside Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava and Joint Secretary (South Asia) from Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Fenn struck the ceremonial pose with the bat—underscoring how cricket can be more than just a game: it can be a diplomatic handshake.
“Cricket is a sport that builds friendships, and I’m thrilled to be part of a tournament that brings together diplomats, journalists, corporates, and communities,” said Ambassador Fenn. “This is how soft power works—through shared passions and friendly rivalries.”
The opening match saw Team Indian Embassy face off against Team Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nepal, but it was Ambassador Fenn’s spirited participation that captured much of the attention, symbolizing the UK’s longstanding people-to-people ties with both Nepal and India.
The tournament, which runs through June 4, features six teams:
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Embassy of India
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nepal
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Embassy of the United Kingdom
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Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ)
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Corporate Team
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Indian Diaspora in Nepal
Branded under hashtags like #CricketDiplomacy and #IndiaNepalFriendship, the tournament highlights the growing role of informal platforms in fostering stronger diplomatic relations.
For Ambassador Fenn, it was not just about cricket but about cultural diplomacy in action. His active involvement in Nepali social issues, promotion of sustainability, and now even cricket, reflects the UK’s commitment to grassroots engagement and regional friendship.
As the tournament continues, the pitch remains not just a place for runs and wickets, but also for forging friendships—one innings at a time.
