It was assumed that Shakti Gauchan would never marry because he did not love anything other than his cricket bat. But the national vice-captain has a throbbing heart that beats for a sweetheart and he proved it.

The shy all-rounder married his childhood sweetheart Kabita Tulachan on Friday in a simple ceremony without much fanfare.

“Second innings of my life has started,” a beaming Shakti said. “More responsibility has come on me and I am very happy.”

Kabita, a second year nursing student, is also a resident of Bhairahawa and both knew each other since childhood.

“After my return from England, I proposed to her,” the 23-year-old told NepalCricket.com. “I then talked to my parents and they agreed.”

Kabita added on Shakti’s happiness telling that she knows all the cricket rules. The 20-year-old bride just nodded when asked about it.

“This will also support my cricket,” Shakti said.

Probably to prove that his marriage won’t affect his cricket, he went for a practice session with the team during the afternoon at the TU Cricket Ground.