Nepal Telecom (NTC), the state-owned telecommunication service provider, has been named the telecom partner of the Sudurpaschim Royals for the upcoming Nepal Premier League (NPL).

NTC Managing Director Sangita Pahadee Aryal and Sudurpaschim Royals CEO Prakash Khadka recently signed an agreement for the sponsorship deal, according to the state-run national news agency RSS. The NPL, a franchise cricket league featuring eight domestic teams, is scheduled to take place at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, from November 30 to December 21.

As per the partnership deal, Nepal Telecom will support the Sudurpaschim Royals throughout the tournament. Speaking at the signing ceremony, MD Aryal emphasized NTC's commitment to promoting sports in Nepal. She expressed optimism that initiatives like the NPL would elevate Nepali cricket and mark a significant milestone in the country's sports development, RSS reported.

According to RSS, the Sudurpaschim Royals team includes marquee player Dipendra Singh Airee, chief coach Jagat Tamata, and Australian mentor Brad Hodge. The squad also features key domestic players such as Aarif Sheikh, Abinash Bohara, Binod Bhandari, Arjun Kumal, Khadak Bohara, Ishan Pandey, Naresh Budayair, Sheikh Ali, Rohan Mustafa, Bhojraj Bhatta, Naren Saud, and Amit Shrestha.

Additionally, the team has strengthened its roster with international cricketers Scott Kuggeleijn from New Zealand and Brandon McMullen from Scotland, added RSS.

Stakeholders believe that the NPL is expected to attract significant attention as a premier cricket event in Nepal, further bolstered by partnerships like that of Nepal Telecom.