NPL begins today at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground

KATHMANDU:- The third edition of the NPL is set to begin on Monday at the TU International Cricket Ground. Following the immense success of the first and second editions, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) faces a significant challenge to make this third NPL even better.

At a press conference held on Sunday, CAN President Chatur Bahadur Chand stated that the NPL is becoming increasingly distinguished as it reaches its third edition. “The participation of top-tier players, the introduction of DRS, and the growing commercial activity surrounding the NPL will make this tournament even more exceptional,” he said. Furthermore, he remarked that this edition of the NPL could serve as a means to help people move past the pain caused by the floods in Rasuwa.

Paras Khadka, Secretary of CAN and the tournament coordinator, stated that with the ICC’s official recognition, the responsibility of all stakeholders has grown even further to ensure the success of the NPL, which will span approximately one month. “We stand at a moment where we can make history,” he remarked. Indeed, the buzz surrounding the NPL has intensified significantly this year, driven by official ICC recognition, the debut of DRS technology, easier processes for signing foreign players, the participation of star cricketers, and the upgrades made to the TU International Cricket Stadium.

The eight franchise teams from the previous edition—reigning champions Lumbini Lions, two-time consecutive runners-up Sudurpaschim Royals, inaugural winners Janakpur Bolts, Kathmandu Gorkhas, Chitwan Rhinos, Biratnagar Kings, Pokhara Avengers, and Karnali Yaks—will compete in the tournament. Through team auctions and the recruitment of global cricketing superstars, each side has assembled a formidable squad.

This time, each team is permitted to have between six and eight foreign players. The rules mandate that the final playing eleven must include seven Nepali players and four foreign players. However, teams now have access to a larger pool of foreign player options.

The third NPL will feature a single round-robin format, followed by an eliminator and a qualifier, culminating in the title match on November-21.