NPL 2nd edition empowers Nepali cricket, young players shine

KATHMANDU: The second edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) is underway at the Tribhuvan International Cricket Stadium in Kirtipur, organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), starting Mangsir 1.

The tournament has become a golden opportunity for emerging talent, providing a platform for players who have struggled to find exposure despite their skills.

It also offers financial benefits, helping players sustain themselves through cricket.

For the first time, the Kirtipur stadium hosted matches under floodlights and parafittings, giving Nepali players the experience of playing high-profile matches at home.

Many young players are taking advantage of the opportunity to learn from foreign professionals, with each team fielding four international players in their final eleven.

Hikmat Mahara, a young player from Sudurpaschim Royals, expressed his excitement at debuting in the NPL. Selected through a talent hunt, Hikmat played his first match at Kirtipur against Chitwan Rhinos and even claimed the wicket of foreign player Saif Zaib. “Playing at Kirtipur for the first time through NPL is a dream come true. I also got a chance to learn from international players,” he said. He emphasized the importance of grassroots cricket for nurturing new talent.

Naren Bhatta, an all-rounder for Biratnagar Kings and former captain of Nepal’s U19 national team, highlighted NPL as a platform for growth and skill development. “NPL gives young players the chance to learn, showcase their talent, and open doors for future opportunities. Playing alongside professionals we only watch on TV is an invaluable learning experience,” he said.

Similarly, Sher Mallaa, an all-rounder from Lumbini Lions, praised NPL for providing exposure and financial stability to players. “Cricket is an expensive sport. Through NPL auctions, players are earning and can sustain themselves by playing the game,” he said.

Other players, including Deepak Bohara (Sudurpaschim Royals) and Kiran Thagunna (Pokhara Avengers), also acknowledged the league’s role in helping young cricketers gain experience, learn from foreign and senior Nepali players, and elevate their game.

CAN President Chatur Bahadur Chand called this era a golden period for Nepali cricket, noting the growing popularity of the sport. “NPL strengthens cricket in Nepal, helps professionalize players, and plays a crucial role in talent development,” he said.

Eight teams are competing in the current edition. Karnali Yaks, Pokhara Avengers, Chitwan Rhinos, Janakpur Bolts, and Kathmandu Gorkhas have been eliminated. Biratnagar Kings and Lumbini Lions will face off in the second qualifier today, with the winner advancing to play Sudurpaschim Royals in the final on Mangsir 27.