The Day Bhutan Found Its First Century at Home
GELEPHU — Yesterday will be remembered as one of the proudest moments in Bhutan’s cricket history.
As Bhutan took on Myanmar in the Bhutan–Myanmar Men’s T20I Bilateral Series in Gelephu, the stands filled slowly with families, students and young fans — hopeful, excited, and quietly dreaming. None of them knew they were about to witness history unfold before their eyes.
Among the players was 21-year-old Namgal Thinley, currently studying Sport Science at RTC through the BOC–RTC Scholarship. His cricket journey began in 2017 at Pelrithang HSS in Gelephu, playing casually with friends before his passion grew into purpose. From representing his school at U16, to Bhutan U16 in the same year, to U19 in 2018, captaining U16 Bhutan in 2019, and finally making his Senior National Team debut in 2022 — every year added discipline, sacrifice and belief.
Yesterday, that long journey reached a beautiful milestone.
Batting with patience and calm determination, Namgal built his innings steadily. With every boundary, the atmosphere shifted — hope turned into anticipation, and anticipation into celebration. Then came the moment: in just 47 balls, Namgal became the first Bhutanese player to score a century in an international match on home soil. The crowd rose to its feet. Teammates embraced him. Smiles, applause, and quiet tears filled the ground. Bhutan went on to secure victory by 120 runs. In the opening match of the series, he had already shown his class with an unbeaten 43 off 25 balls — but this century felt like something greater, something shared by everyone.
Despite the record, Namgal remained grounded. After the match, he expressed gratitude, saying he felt inspired because he was able to contribute to his country. He said the achievement belonged not only to him but to his teammates, coaches and supporters — and he dedicated his century to Bhutan and to His Majesty The King.
Moments like this remind us why sport is so important in Bhutan. It shapes character, builds unity, and fills young hearts with courage and hope. For every child watching whether playing in village grounds, school fields, or dreaming quietly at home this moment shows what is possible when passion meets perseverance.
On behalf of the Bhutan Olympic Committee family and all sports lovers across the nation, we offer our heartfelt Tashi Delek to Namgal and the Bhutan cricket team. May this century inspire many more dreams, many more achievements, and many more stories of pride for our country.
Bhutan Charts a Fresh Path in Sports Leadership
Curious to know who’s shaping the future of sports in Bhutan? Meet the full executive board here
Latest Updates and Insights
Discover our newest blogs, news, and announcements—curated just for you. Stay informed and inspired!
THE WORLDWIDE OLYMPIC PARTNERS

