According to Gopi Bhattarai, coordinator of the organizing committee, one team each from Bangladesh, Bhutan and Kolkata (India) have confirmed their participation in the tournament. [break]
"Though one A division team each from Bangladesh and Bhutan have confirmed their participation their names are yet to be finalized," said Bhattarai who confirmed Druk Pol´s arrival from Bhutan.
The other teams include Pokhara XI of the host and seven premier division teams of Nepal -- Laxmi Hyundai Manang Marshyangdi Club (MMC), McDowell´s Ranipokhari Corner Team (RCT), Nepal Police Club, Armed Police Force (APF), New Road Team (NRT), Yeti Airlines Himalayan Sherpa Club, Machhindra Club and Friends Club.
MMC had pulled out of the tournament last year citing unavailability of players as nearly a dozen of its players were in the closed camp training of the national team.
Khemraj Gurung, the president of Kaski District Football Association, claimed that the teams from abroad would be stronger. "The teams from abroad will be visiting with the aim of lifting the trophy. This will add to the excitement during the tournament," Gurung said.
Meanwhile, the cash prize of the tournament has also been increased. The winner of the second edition will get Rs 300,000 which is Rs 50,000 more than the previous edition. The runner-up will receive Rs 150,000. The expected cost of the event is Rs 6 million.
"We have increased the cash prize to give a morale boost to the teams and players," said Gurung, adding that best players in four different positions -- goalkeeping, defense, midfield and forward -- and the best coach would also be awarded.
Meanwhile, the organizer has also started preparing the ground and the stadium for the tournament. Gurung also said that Kaski District Sports Development has built changing room, referee room and players box.
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