Shakti Gauchan, the name every Nepali cricket fan at least for once had in their lips. Such has been the influence of this man in Nepali Cricket. He has many records to his name and has earned respect and love from his fellow teammates and fans. The lanky offie with round-arm action has had many batsmen look foolish at times. I bet he gave many opponents at least a few nightmares. The canny lefty is known to restrict the batsmen cramping them for room and eventually getting better of them. The enthusiasm of the lanky orthodox spinner can’t just be questioned. He gained many admirers during the 2014 World 20-20 in Bangladesh where he was just phenomenal.

                                         

Shakti made his debut for the senior Nepal side in the 2002, ACC Trophy in Singapore. Gauchan was very quick to make impressions with his all-round performance during his very first tournament for Nepal. Shakti, as his name suggests, was very powerful as he bowled at an exceptional economic rate of 2.28 runs per over and bagged seven wickets. He wasn’t too far behind with the bat either amassing 248 runs at an average of 41.33 including two half-centuries. His best match so far in his career can be considered as the one against Italy where he was simply unmoveable in his 106* off 103 Balls with the bat and unplayable with the ball with match figures of 10-1-29-4.

He was an irreplaceable member of the Nepalese team and deserved every praise he gets. He has a big hand in taking Nepal to this current position, but every good thing has to come to an end. Now looks as if he is in the twilight of his career with 17-year leg-spinning sensation Sandeep Lamichhane slowly occupying his place in the team. Sandeep has become the star of Nepali Cricket and is conquering everything in his sight recently. Shakti himself will be proud by whom he has been replaced in the team.No hard feelings to the teenager though. He is learning all the tricks from the old man. The 6 ft 1-inch Nepali legend now deserves a great farewell.Respect from everyone as well as being around for a year or two and making the dream ODI debut.

He might be hanging up his boots soon but the impact he had in Nepali cricket is impeccable. He risked his career for not so fashionable Cricket in Nepal. This face of Nepali Cricketing Sensation will always be the one to look up to for the young ones taking cricket. Though Sun is setting,it has already provided enough Brightness to guide and Energy to excite.