Sunil Gavaskar to promote Nepal's sports tourism

Dec 15 - Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar said Thursday that he is willing to be the Goodwill Ambassador for Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) to promote sports tourism in Nepal.

The cricketing icon from India, who came to Nepal on a holiday trip a few days ago, was offered the role by NTB.

?I am touched and overwhelmed by the offer and will help in anyway possible,? said Gavaskar during a press meet in the capital, adding, ?Even the Indian government has not given it such consideration so far.?

However, he said that he would be looking forward to an official offer to lead Nepal?s bid to be a popular sporting venue. Gavaskar also said that Nepal was indeed a great sports venue.

?Rich cultural, atmospheric and topographical background serve as the best backdrop for a variety of sporting events to be held in the country,? he said.
Gavaskar, who is also the chairman of the cricket committee on the International Cricket Council, said that Nepal has been the ?King of cricket? at junior level and needed more exposure.

He further added that good playing conditions are encouraging for high profile matches too.

During his stay, Gavaskar, popularly known as the little master, also inspected cricket infrastructures and interacted with Nepali players.