Aasif Sheikh

Biography

Aasif Sheikh, born on June 22, 2001, in Birgunj, Nepal, is a prominent right-handed wicketkeeper-batsman who has emerged as a key figure in Nepalese cricket. Known for his classical batting style and agility behind the stumps, Sheikh has been instrumental in Nepal's cricketing achievements on the international stage.

Sheikh's cricketing journey began in Birgunj, where he honed his skills at the junior levels before making his mark in domestic cricket. He gained prominence in 2016 during the Everest Premier League, scoring an unbeaten 111 runs in the final for Panchakanya Tej, leading them to their maiden title. His performance earned him the distinction of being the tournament's leading run-scorer.

He further showcased his leadership abilities by captaining the Nepal U-19 team in the 2018 Quadrangular Cricket Tournament in India and the 2018 ACC Under-19 Asia Cup. ​

International Career

Sheikh made his T20 International debut for Nepal against the Netherlands on April 17, 2021, where he impressed with an unbeaten half-century and a record 116-run opening partnership. He continued his form in the series, amassing 154 runs at an average of 38.50 and a strike rate of 138.73.

His One Day International debut came on September 7, 2021, against Papua New Guinea. In March 2023, he scored his maiden ODI century, a commanding 110 runs against the same opponent.

In May 2024, Sheikh was named in Nepal's squad for the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, reflecting his growing stature in the team.

Career Statistics (as of November 2024)

ODIs:

Matches: 56

Runs: 1,522

Average: 29.84

Centuries/Fifties: 1/13

Top Score: 110

Catches/Stumpings: 38/5 ​

T20Is:

Matches: 54

Runs: 1,245

Average: 23.94

Fifties: 6

Top Score: 64*

Awards and Recognition

In 2022, Sheikh received the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award for his sportsmanship during a T20I match against Ireland. He chose not to run out Irish batsman Andy McBrine, who had fallen mid-pitch after a collision, allowing him to complete the run. This act made Sheikh the first Nepalese cricketer to receive this prestigious award.

Notable Achievements

Holds the record for the most ODI half-centuries (13) for Nepal. ​

First Nepalese player to score a half-century against India in ODIs.