By Sachit Subba • Other Sports • Apr 09, 2026 15:28 PM • 35 views
LALITPUR, Nepal – Nepal will host the ITF Asia 12 & Under Team Competition – South Asia Regional Qualifying Event at the Satdobato Tennis Complex. The tournament begins on April 13 and runs for five days. It is a key event to determine which young tennis teams will represent South Asia at the Asian Finals in Singapore (Sept 15-20, 2026).
The Nepal Tennis Association (NTA) has confirmed participation from six nations: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Bhutan, in addition to Nepal. This format assesses both individual and team performance. Nepal is hosting the regional qualifier for the fifth time since 2017, underlining the country’s increasing stature and credibility in regional tennis. Local officials view this recurring role as signifying recognition for Nepal's growing contribution to South Asian tennis development.
Only the top two teams from both the boys’ and girls’ brackets will qualify for the continental finals in September, making the tournament highly competitive and important for the future of these players. Each tie includes two singles and one doubles match, following a best-of-three format. “The objective isn’t just participation; it’s about identifying talent early,” said NTA President Manohar Das Mool. He highlighted the association’s focus on junior development as a strategic priority.
Nepal will compete with a six-player roster. For the boys: Aarit Malla, Sabhya Jung Karki, and Sahansh Basnet. For the girls: Sara Pant, Arya Paudel, and Naira Si Ghale. The tournament will be overseen by Jonathan Syubbs, ITF development officer for the East, West, and South Asian Region. Ajay Bishta serves as Tournament Director. Supreeth Kadavigere is the Silver Badge Referee. They will ensure compliance with international officiating standards.
The event also tests the NTA’s organisational capacity. There are 33 athletes and 11 coaches participating in the capital. The tournament concludes on April 17. After that, preparations begin for the four qualifying teams advancing to the Singapore finals later this year.
