The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has apologised for the timed-out dismissal of a Bhutanese batter during a women’s international match, saying the incident did not reflect the values and spirit of cricket that the organisation seeks to uphold.

The controversy arose during Nepal’s ACC Women’s Premier Cup match against Bhutan on Thursday when Bhutan’s Ritshi Choden was dismissed, timed out after failing to arrive at the crease within the required time following the fall of a wicket. Nepal players appealed for the dismissal, and the umpires upheld the appeal.

Under the Laws of Cricket, an incoming batter in a Twenty20 match must be ready to face the next delivery within 90 seconds of a wicket falling. Bhutan captain Anju Gurung later said her team had attempted to change the batting order, but the message did not reach the incoming batter in time, resulting in the delay.

In a press release issued on Thursday, CAN acknowledged that the dismissal was carried out within the Laws of Cricket but said the spirit of the game extends beyond the written rules and should remain central to players’ conduct.

“On behalf of the Cricket Association of Nepal, we extend our sincere apologies for the actions of our Women’s National Team in this matter,” the statement said.

CAN said it places the utmost importance on sportsmanship, mutual respect and fair play, adding that the incident fell short of those standards and may have caused disappointment among players, supporters and stakeholders.

“We recognise that the spirit of the game extends beyond the written laws and must remain central to our conduct at all times,” the statement said.

The governing body conveyed its apologies to Bhutan Cricket, the player involved and all relevant stakeholders.

The statement, undersigned by CAN Secretary Paras Khadka, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and the spirit of cricket both on and off the field.