The Nepal Premier League (NPL) has achieved a significant milestone after securing official recognition from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for its Twenty20 tournament. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) formally announced the global governing body’s sanction through a press release issued on Friday, 16 October.
This endorsement from the ICC is expected to substantially enhance the tournament’s credibility and standing across the international cricketing landscape. Official sanctioning opens the doors for renowned international stars and elite coaching staff to participate in the league without administrative hurdles, as national boards routinely require ICC approval before issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to their contracted players. In its press statement, CAN highlighted that this official approval will play a pivotal role in expanding Nepal’s domestic cricket infrastructure while elevating the nation’s profile on the global sporting stage. The national board also expressed deep gratitude to the ICC for its continued partnership and guidance in elevating the competition.
Adding significant marquee value to the upcoming third edition of the tournament is the inclusion of Bangladesh’s star all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan. The veteran cricketer will represent the Pokhara Avengers during the campaign. Although Shakib’s appearances in international and domestic fixtures have been sporadic over the past two years, he remains a highly sought-after figure in franchise leagues across the globe, bringing immense experience and star power to the Himalayan nation’s premier T20 event.
The tournament, featuring eight franchise teams representing different regions, is scheduled to commence on 26 October and will run until the showpiece final on 21 November. The competition has grown steadily since its inception, building a passionate domestic fanbase. Janakpur Bolts claimed the inaugural title during the first edition in 2024, whilst Lumbini Lions lifted the trophy in the second edition in 2025. With official ICC recognition now secured, the third edition promises to deliver the highest standard of cricket yet seen in the country.