KATHMANDU: The United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based businessman Shyam A Bhatia donated 50 sets of cricket kits to the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) here today.

A passionate cricket lover himself, Bhatia meant the kits to be distributed

to the children all over the country. Shyam Bhatia

and his brother LA Bhatia handed over a set each to nine institutions. Among the recipients were the

Tribhuvan University, Birendra Sainik Awasiya Mahavidhyala of Bhaktapur, Greenland Children Academy, Ananda Bhumi School of Mulpani, Cricket Association for Blinds, Apex Academy of Sarlahi, Pulchowk Engineering Campus, Laboratory School, and the National Cricket Association of the Deaf.

CAN President Binay Raj Pandey said that the remaining cricket gears would be distributed to various institutions across the country. Thanking Bhatia for his generous contribution for the Nepali cricket, Pandey said, “We look forward for your continued support in future as well.”

Speaking on the occasion, Bhatia said that cricket had given him so much that he was obliged to give it back. “I promise to be back here again as soon as a new cricket stadium is built in Nepal,” added Bhatia. Bhatia also revealed his idea behind publishing a cricket book ‘Portrait of the Game’ on the occasion. “The rare text helped generate funds,” said Bhatia.

Bhatia also presented

the book to Minister for Youth and Sports Ganesh Nepali. “We should learn from him (Bhatia),” said minister Nepali.

“A man from outside is willing to help the Nepali sports but people here are trying to hinder it,” added Nepali referring to the ongoing padlocking of the National Sports Council. CAN President Pandey also handed over a token of love to Bhatai. CAN vice-president Upendra Bhattarai and spokesperson Tarak Mani Dixit among others were also present on the occasion.