PM Oli honors Janakpur Bolts for winning inaugural NPL

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli congratulated and honored the players and management of Janakpur Bolts, the champions of the inaugural edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).

At a program held on Sunday at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, PM Oli praised the team’s exceptional performance and their contribution to elevating Nepal’s cricketing standards.

He also extended his best wishes for greater success in the future, encouraging the players to maintain confidence, skills, and enthusiasm to establish Nepal as a cricket powerhouse globally.

“This is a victory for all Nepalis and for Nepali cricket. The extraordinary talent showcased during the tournament is commendable. While Sudurpaschim Royals also performed well, Janakpur Bolts demonstrated resilience and earned this victory. Congratulations to the entire team,” said PM Oli. “I wish you even greater achievements in the days ahead.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Oli highlighted that his first decision as Prime Minister was to upgrade the cricket stadium in Kirtipur, which is now moving forward with the tender process. He reaffirmed the government’s continued commitment to the development of sports in Nepal.

During the event, officials from the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and team managers raised concerns over the cumbersome processes involved in bringing foreign players and securing international investments in sports.

In response, PM Oli assured that the government would simplify such procedures and provide necessary support.

CAN President Chatur Bahadur Chand thanked the government for prioritizing cricket and urged for an end to the complicated labor approval process for foreign players.

Janakpur Bolts’ captain, Aasif Sheikh, expressed delight at receiving recognition and honor from the Prime Minister.

Janakpur Bolts clinched the NPL title on Saturday, defeating Sudurpaschim Royals by five wickets in the final match held at the Kirtipur Cricket Ground.