Funds for Captain Sabitra Bhandari ‘Samba’ Raised Within 24 Hours

 

The required funds for the treatment of national women’s football team captain Sabitra Bhandari, popularly known as ‘Samba,’ have been successfully raised in less than 24 hours.

Bhandari shared the update through her official Facebook account, informing supporters that nearly NPR 15 million has already been deposited from contributors both in Nepal and abroad. She has requested that further financial contributions be halted for the time being.

According to her statement, more than NPR 10 million has been collected in a Nepali bank account, while an additional NPR 4.5 million (approximately 52,000 New Zealand dollars) has been raised through a foreign platform.

Bhandari has been sidelined for nearly two months after suffering a serious knee injury. Earlier this week, she had appealed to supporters for financial assistance to cover the costs of her surgery and rehabilitation after failing to receive the necessary support from the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), the country’s football governing body.

She had expressed disappointment on social media, stating that although ANFA initially assured coordination and assistance for her treatment, it later withdrew its support. Bhandari said the lack of backing from the association during such a critical time had added to her physical and emotional distress.

While previous ANFA leadership had supported her treatment at Qatar’s Aspetar Hospital, she noted that the current leadership did not extend similar assistance, prompting her to seek public help.

In a heartfelt message to her supporters, Bhandari said the word “thank you” feels insufficient to express her gratitude. She said the overwhelming support, trust, and love she received in the past 24 hours have strengthened her resolve to give 100 percent effort toward her surgery and rehabilitation.

“As a player, I have realized once again that the greatest asset I have earned is not money or titles, but love, trust, and support,” she wrote.

She also mentioned that several sponsors and organizations in Nepal have pledged additional financial and logistical assistance. Support promised by individuals and institutions in Qatar is expected to help cover accommodation and transportation expenses during her treatment.

Her club, Wellington Phoenix FC, has also facilitated the release of insurance funds and is providing additional support to assist with her surgery and rehabilitation process. She expressed confidence that the surgery date will be confirmed soon.

Bhandari acknowledged that the injury had drained her both physically and mentally, but said the support she received has given her renewed courage and reassurance that she is not alone.

“I will return,” she vowed. “I will come back stronger. I will wear Nepal’s jersey again and step onto the field — for my country, for you, and for the belief that has carried me forward.”

She concluded by saying that her true expression of gratitude will be her comeback — returning to the field in Nepal’s colors and winning for the nation.