A cricket commentator sparked controversy during a match between Nepal and Canada’s High-Performance team in Kathmandu on Tuesday, October 8. The commentator allegedly made a racist remark directed at a Nepalese cricketer who was batting in the middle during the third and final practice match between the two teams.

In a video that has been widely shared on social media, the commentator can be heard making the offensive remark casually. One of his fellow commentators pointed it out, but the individual continued, attempting to imitate the local accent. Some fans claimed that the commentator, who made the racist remark, was Canadian and was trying to speak Hindi with a Nepali accent, referring to the cricketer as a “security guard” when he called out, “Oh Sahaab Ji.”

Nepal cricket’s fan club, Nepal Rhino’s Army, condemned the racist remark in a statement, urging cricket administrators to take action against the commentator.

“We are deeply disturbed by the utterly disgraceful and unacceptable comments made by the commentator during the practice match between Nepal and the Canada High Performance Team. These remarks were not only inappropriate but also racist, and have no place in any form of sport. Racism and discrimination are entirely contrary to the values of respect, inclusion, and fair play that we strive to uphold in our community,” the fan club said in a statement.

“We firmly believe that sports should be a platform for unity, equality, and the celebration of diversity, and we stand against any behavior that perpetuates harm or division. It is essential that those responsible for such remarks are held fully accountable, and we demand a thorough and complete investigation into the matter.

“We are calling for immediate actions to be taken, including a public apology, education on the importance of respect and inclusion, and concrete measures to prevent such incidents in the future. We will continue to work alongside relevant authorities to ensure a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all players, staff, and fans.

“Racism has no place in sport or society, and we are committed to ensuring that incidents like this are addressed with the seriousness they deserve,” it added.

Nepal has been on the rise in international cricket, with matches well-attended by fans. Videos showing packed stands in Nepal have given hope to cricket administrators regarding the potential for expanding the game into new regions.

Having recently participated in a tri-series in Canada, Nepal is set to travel to Dallas for a three-match T20I series and a five-match ODI series against the United States from October 18 to November 4.