The ICC decision taken at its annual conference in Melbourne means Nepal can now take on established cricketing nations. The ICC allows the non-Test playing nations with both ODI and Twenty20 status to involve in a bilateral Twenty20 or one-day series with Test playing nations.

The Netherlands were also given the status on the back of their solid performances during the World Twenty20 held in Bangladesh in March. They joined fellow ICC associate members Afghanistan, Ireland and Scotland, who have been involved in Twenty20 and ODI series with several Test playing teams.  

The decision is a welcome relief for Nepali cricket whose governing body has  been dogged by corruption scandals.

“This gift of happiness belongs to all Nepalis. Our hard work has paid off,” said Nepali team captain Paras Khadka, reacting to the news. “We need to put all the controversies behind us and carry the momentum now.”

Khadka also credited coach Pubudu Dassanayake for the achievement, calling on the authorities to retain him. “He (Dassanayake) has been the major reason behind our success. The first step for us should be bringing him back.” Coach Dassanayake, whose current contract with CAN expires on Monday, was delighted by the news. “It is a great day for Nepal. I went Nepal 32 months ago and my first mission was to get Nepal through to the World Qualifiers,” he said, talking to the Post over the phone from Canada. “Now we are standing at a point where we can challenge the top teams. It is a new beginning for Nepali cricket.”