#Commentary
KATHMANDU,Dec 21: The first edition of Nepal Premier League (NPL) has been a major turning point in the history of Nepali cricket. As the first franchise-based T20 cricket tournament in the country, the iconic NPL has indeed brought a new level of professionalism to cricket in the nation by combining local talent with international players. With the NPL gaining international recognition Nepal has now become an attractive destination for cricket and has enhanced the overall cricketing affairs here in Nepal.
Held at the good old TU cricket ground from November 30 to December 21, the NPL matches witnessed an overwhelming response from fans and spectators as they kept the venue packed in almost all 32 matches, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for cricket in Nepal. Every now and then the live commentators had words of appreciation for the playful and well-behaved home audience, who crooned and shook to the rhythms of music while the play was in progress. The spectators showed up in thousands in every match and were a joy to watch in their own right.
With a competitive structure inspired by global franchise cricket tournaments such as the Indian Premier League and Australia's Big Bash, the NPL has offered an opportunity to Nepali stakeholders to develop cricket affairs to a new level.
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The franchise tournament consisted of eight teams named after different cities and provinces in Nepal. This format is similar to other T20 tournaments around the world, giving players valuable opportunities to showcase their abilities. Some notable domestic players, including Karan KC, Kushal Malla, Kushal Bhurtel, Dipendra Airee, Anil Shah, Rohit Paudel, Sompal Kami, and Sandeep Lamichhane, took charge as leaders of their respective teams. In addition, international stars like Martin Guptill, Jimmy Neesham, Ben Cutting, and Shikhar Dhawan joined them. The presence of these top-tier overseas players allowed local players to gain experience alongside global talents, helping them sharpen their skills for international competitions.
One important aspect of NPL's inaugural season was its partnership with Star Sports, the top sports network in India, which guarantees worldwide exposure for the league. This collaboration enabled fans from all over the globe to watch Nepali cricket matches. The league's reputation improved significantly thanks to the presence of industry veterans like Darren Gough and HD Ackerman, who provide professional insights through their commentary.
By establishing connections with international experts and networks, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) attracted global attention to the country’s major franchise cricket and has secured the necessary investment for future editions. From an economic viewpoint, the NPL has significant potential to lead growth in various sectors. Ownership stakes in franchises, player salaries, and sponsorship arrangements made significant financial contributions to the league.
The costs of setting up eight teams, ranging from Rs 11.1 million to Rs 35.7 million, are mainly dedicated to player contracts. Prominent stars have earned around Rs 2 million, which is considered a considerable amount by local standards. Other players have also received impressive remunerations and match fees. This economic activity has had a positive impact on local businesses, including hotels and transportation services. Besides, cash generated through media rights opportunities, sponsorship, and merchandise advertisements reached a new zenith. Siddhartha Bank was roped in as main sponsor of the NPL, in collaboration with Twenty-First Century Media's management, demonstrating growing corporate interest in Nepali cricket.
With effective and successful conduction of the NPL matches, the country’s cricket infrastructure will certainly experience improvement and expansion. Record number of audiences at the match venue- Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground during all matches indicated cricket matches of high stature would have no dearth of spectators and fans. It will encourage CAN to make preparation for larger-scale competition in the days ahead. The league prioritizes grassroots development, investing in academies, coaching programs, and youth initiatives to cultivate future national team players.
Cricket has indeed turned out to be a major unifying element in Nepal, helping address and improve regional differences. This spirit was witnessed over a three week long tourney that helped reinforce the NPL's reputation as a celebration of the “Festival of the Himalayas” while cultivating strong fan support for local teams.
While early success is noteworthy, the NPL is likely to confront issues with financial sustainability and challenges in staying competitive among the eight franchises. The CAN-led franchise cricket administration must conduct transparent contracts for securing constant sponsor support while expanding infrastructure and renovating facilities would improve the league's basis. By overcoming these challenges, the NPL will without doubt become a pedestal for promoting Nepali cricket.
Looking ahead, the NPL-induced current developments in cricketing affairs may assist the CAN and the country to host bigger ICC competitions, quickening the nation’s progress toward getting Test country status. This will in turn boost cricket’s overall status in Nepal, taking it to grassroots and motivate current players, fans, spectators, and future generations of cricketers.
