CAN projects Rs 1.5 billion in economic activity, increases prize money and promises greater transparency in third edition.
Kathmandu – Preparations for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) are nearly complete, with the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) promising the biggest and most significant tournament in the country’s cricket history when the competition begins Monday.
CAN officials said at a press conference Sunday that 95% to 99% of preparations had been completed, with improvements to stadium facilities, digital ticketing and security arrangements in place for the month-long tournament.
The league, which has received International Cricket Council (ICC) sanction, is expected to generate approximately Rs 1.5 billion ($1.5 billion rupees) in economic activity, according to CAN treasurer Padam Bahadur Khadka.
Khadka said CAN expects to generate Rs 700 million to Rs 750 million through sponsorships, ticket sales and other commercial activities. The eight franchise owners are expected to invest a similar amount in team building and operations.
The tournament has also raised its prize pool to record levels. The champions will receive Rs 15 million, while the runners-up will earn Rs 8 million. The third- and fourth-place teams will receive Rs 4 million and Rs 3 million, respectively.
CAN secretary Paras Khadka addressed concerns raised during the previous two editions over ownership, transparency and alleged irregularities, saying the league had been brought under a more institutionalized governance structure.
A three-member governing council with full authority has been formed through CAN’s general assembly, he said, adding that decisions are subject to approval by the CAN board. The association has pledged to submit the tournament’s financial accounts transparently to the National Sports Council, the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Government of Nepal.
Infrastructure at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur has also been upgraded to improve spectator movement and safety. Areas behind the stadium’s parapet have been blacktopped, while dedicated parking facilities have been arranged around Lab School, Chobhar and the Ayurvedic Hospital.
CAN has coordinated with the Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and Nepal Army to strengthen security throughout the competition. Ticketing will be fully digital, officials said.
Beyond the franchise tournament, CAN said it would continue to focus on the development of domestic cricket and players who miss out on NPL selection. A separate training camp to prepare players for one-day international cricket is scheduled to begin Dec. 4, while the Under-19 National Cricket Competition will be held in Sudurpaschim from Nov. 15.
CAN also reiterated that players seeking to participate in overseas leagues must obtain permission and a no-objection certificate (NOC) from their respective cricket board, saying the requirement would be strictly enforced.
With increased investment, a larger prize pool and upgraded facilities, CAN hopes the third edition will strengthen the NPL’s position as a major platform for Nepali cricket and deliver a broader economic boost to the sport.
