KATHMANDU, Oct 7: Preparations for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) have entered the final stage, with upgrading and management work at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur nearing completion.
Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) Secretary Paras Khadka said infrastructure and management work has been accelerated with about three weeks remaining before the tournament begins.
As the NPL continues to grow with each edition, CAN is working to provide a better experience for spectators, players, journalists and guests, he said.
“We are in the final stage of preparations. Expectations are high, and as the tournament grows, so does our responsibility,” Khadka said. “We plan to complete all the work by Dashain and be fully ready for the third edition.”
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CAN is addressing management problems seen during the previous season and adding new facilities at the ground. With NPL matches drawing large crowds, efforts are underway to increase seating capacity by making maximum use of available space.
Improvements are also being made to access roads and entry gates in coordination with the relevant government ministry. CAN said particular attention is being given to ensuring smooth movement for ticket holders from their arrival at the ground until they leave after matches.
Spectators faced problems with toilets, dust and movement around the venue during the previous edition. Khadka said CAN is working to prevent those problems from recurring.
The tournament will be held between Dashain and Tihar, but CAN does not expect the festival period to significantly affect attendance.
Khadka said Nepal has a strong cricket fan base and expects spectators to turn up despite the timing. The tournament schedule was determined primarily by the international cricket calendar, other franchise leagues and the availability of foreign players.
Teams have stepped up efforts to sign prominent international cricketers for the third season. CAN expects their presence to further boost interest in the league.
“This time, every team is bringing in top players. Fans will now be able to watch players they have seen on television playing live at the Kirtipur ground,” Khadka said.
The third edition of the NPL will be held in Kathmandu from Kartik 9 to Mangsir 5.
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