Kathmandu: Prime Minister Balendra Shah is scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Monday, according to his press expert, Dipa Dahal.
Ahead of the tournament, Shah extended his best wishes to the participating players, organisers and the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), calling the NPL one of the country’s biggest sporting events. He also welcomed international players and commentators who have arrived in Nepal for the competition.
In a message shared on social media, the prime minister expressed hope that the tournament would be successful and contribute to the growth of cricket in Nepal.
The T20 franchise tournament begins on Monday at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, and will continue until November 21.
The NPL has expanded significantly since its inaugural edition, attracting prominent international cricketers, increasing commercial interest and drawing larger audiences. This year’s competition will feature the Decision Review System (DRS), while the International Cricket Council (ICC) has recognised the league’s matches as List A T20 fixtures.
The tournament is also expected to generate substantial revenue. CAN Treasurer Padam Khadka said at a press conference on Sunday that the league could earn around Rs 200 million through sponsorships and more than Rs 700 million from ticket sales and broadcasting. The association expects the tournament’s overall turnover to reach Rs 1.5 billion.
The league recorded a turnover of Rs 1 billion during its first season, with a more modest increase reported in the second edition.
Franchise expenditure has also increased as the competition grows. Spending by each team, which stood at around Rs 80 million to Rs 100 million in the previous two editions, is projected to reach approximately Rs 150 million this season. The rise reflects higher costs for international players, larger squads, accommodation and other operational requirements.
CAN’s own expenditure is estimated at around Rs 300 million this year, compared with approximately Rs 210 million last year. The introduction of DRS and expanded promotional activities have contributed to the increase.
With greater investment, international participation and new technology, the third edition of the NPL is expected to further strengthen the tournament’s position in Nepal’s sporting and commercial landscape.
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