The first edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) played a constructive role in revitalizing the country’s economy which was on the downturn.
Janakpur Bolts emerged victorious in the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL), defeating Sudurpaschim Royals by five wickets in the final match held at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Saturday, December 21. Chasing a target of 185 runs set by Sudurpaschim, Janakpur achieved the victory in 19.2 overs losing five wickets, securing the NPL trophy and a cash prize of Rs 11 million—the highest prize money in Nepal’s sports history.
The tournament, which began on November 30, significantly contributed to stimulating Nepal’s economy and enhancing the nation’s cricketing landscape.
The NPL featured eight teams, with franchise investors collectively spending approximately Rs 1 billion on team purchases, player signings, coaching staff, equipment, and accommodations. Janakpur Bolts were acquired by Dream Sports Pvt. Ltd. for Rs 25 million, representing Madhesh Province.
Dream Sports is owned by manpower entrepreneur Amit Shrestha whose Shikhar Group of Companies has investments in manpower, hotels and other sectors.
The team, coached by Pubudu Dassanayake, featured marquee player Asif Sheikh and international stars such as New Zealand’s Jimmy Neesham and Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Milantha. Operations were overseen by Niroj Khatiwada, with DNA International Nepal serving as the main sponsor, alongside Techno Mobile, Rumpum, and other prominent brands.
Franchise purchases ranged from Rs 11.1 million for Karnali Yaks to Rs 35.7 million for Pokhara Avengers. However, many investors reported that the income generated by the tournament fell short of their expenditures. Despite these challenges, stakeholders remain optimistic about the future prospects of the league.
Lumbini Lions President Ishwor GC commented, “The amount received from sponsors will not cover even half of the expenses. However, the brand value created through this competition has set a foundation for future investments and sponsorships.”
Cricket Association Nepal (CAN) also played a vital role in the tournament’s success, managing broadcasting rights with Star Sports and securing sponsorship deals, which further enhanced the NPL’s profile.
The tournament recognized individual achievements with several prestigious awards. Sudurpaschim Royals captain Dipendra Singh Airee was named Player of the Series and received an Omoda E5 car worth Rs 6.199 million. Saif Ali Zaib, also from Sudurpaschim, was declared Player of the Tournament and awarded Rs 500,000. Lalit Rajbanshi won Best Bowler and received a motorcycle, while Bipin Prasad Sharma of Karnali Yaks was recognized as the Emerging Player, earning Rs 50,000 and a scholarship worth Rs 1 million.
Jimmy Neesham of Janakpur was named Energetic Player of the Tournament and received Rs 200,000. The Maximum Four Award went to Lahiru Milantha, and Lumbini Lions earned the Fair Play Award. Former prime ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba and Pushpa Kamal Dahal distributed the awards during the closing ceremony.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli congratulated Janakpur Bolts on their historic victory and lauded Sudurpaschim Royals for their commendable performance. He expressed his delight over the success of the NPL, stating, “With this, the grand festival of Nepali cricket has come to an end. Such tournaments will elevate Nepali cricket to new heights, and the government pledges its continued support for sports development.”
