NPL Season 2 begins today with bigger stars & first-ever night games

KATHMANDU: At a time when franchise cricket leagues are booming worldwide, Nepal’s own Nepal Premier League (NPL) has already carved a global identity within just one season.

After making a sensational entry last year—earning a spot among the world’s top five most valuable franchise leagues alongside the IPL, Big Bash League, and CPL—NPL is now set to launch its second edition in grand fashion at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground from Monday.

Cricket Association Nepal (CAN) Secretary and Tournament Director Paras Khadka said the overwhelming success of the first season has raised expectations. “We have accepted the challenge to make the second season even better. With the support of all stakeholders, we are confident that this edition will succeed as well,” he said.

The month-long league will conclude on Dec 13 (Mangsir 27) with the title decider.

A total of 32 matches will be played this season under the single round-robin format, followed by an Eliminator and two Qualifiers.

Teams and Players: World-Class Line-ups As Competition Intensifies

The same eight franchises sold to city-based owners last year will return this season:

• Janakpur Bolts (Defending Champions)

• Sudurpashchim Royals (Runners-up)

• Kathmandu Gurkhas

• Chitwan Rhinos

• Biratnagar Kings

• Lumbini Lions

• Pokhara Avengers

• Karnali Yaks

Each team has built a powerful squad through a competitive auction, signing top Nepali talents and global cricket stars. Every team is allowed a minimum of four and a maximum of six overseas players.

This year, more than 40 superstar international players have arrived in Nepal, including Faf du Plessis, Jason Roy, Wayne Parnell, Chris Lynn, and Imran Tahir, adding enormous charisma and quality to the tournament.

Elite Coaches Add Extra Spark

Five of the eight teams have hired foreign coaches.

• Pubudu Dassanayake, who guided Janakpur to the maiden title, now takes charge of Biratnagar Kings.

• Janakpur Bolts have appointed West Indies legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul as head coach.

• Kathmandu Gorkhas have trusted former Nepal head coach Monty Desai.

• Pokhara Avengers have signed Rajiv Kumar from India.

• Lumbini Lions have appointed Indian-origin coach Tinu Yohannan.

Paras Khadka said the arrival of foreign stars and coaches will provide Nepali players with exposure both on and off the field. “Their presence elevates the league’s international appeal and offers invaluable learning for Nepali cricketers,” he added.

Player Contracts and Earnings

While details of international player contracts remain undisclosed, Nepali cricketers have earned substantial sums this season.

• Marquee players received Rs 20 lakh each.

• Other domestic players earned between Rs 2 lakh and 15 lakh.

• Iconic players scouted through the talent hunt also secured impressive deals.

Teams have also invested heavily in promotions and branding.

Growing Market: NPL’s Bra/nd Value Aiming Beyond Rs 2 Billion

Last year, NPL generated transactions exceeding Rs 1 billion. This season, CAN targets a brand valuation of over Rs 2 billion.

Paras Khadka said Nepali cricket is now evolving into a full-fledged industry and expects even greater financial activity in the league’s second edition. NPL remains Nepal’s highest-budget cricket tournament.

Cricket Under Lights: A Historic First for Nepal

One of the major highlights of NPL Season 2 is that Nepal will host night cricket for the first time. Of the 32 matches, nine will be day games and 23 will be played under floodlights.

The government, in collaboration with CAN, recently upgraded the TU Cricket Ground with floodlight facilities and improved seating. The venue, which has a capacity of 13,000, will sell 9,500 tickets per match.

With colorful seating, improved infrastructure, and bright lighting, the second NPL promises a new viewing experience for fans.

Opening Match: Janakpur Bolts vs Kathmandu Gurkhas at 4 PM Today

The tournament will officially kick off on Monday at 4 PM, featuring a high-voltage clash between defending champions Janakpur Bolts and Kathmandu Gurkhas.

Last season, Janakpur defeated Kathmandu by five wickets. The champions will look to continue their winning momentum in their title defense, while Kathmandu will seek revenge to start their campaign strong.

Kathmandu Gurkhas

Janakpur Bolts