In a major boost for Nepalese cricket, Indian cricket star Shikhar Dhawan has signed with the Karnali Yaks for the inaugural season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. The announcement has sparked excitement among cricket fans as Dhawan, a former India opener with over 10,000 international runs, will be playing in Nepal’s highly anticipated league. Dhawan joins a lineup of celebrated international cricketers, including New Zealand’s James Neesham and West Indies’ Ben Cutting, adding to the league’s star power.
Shikhar Dhawan’s Cricket Journey
Dhawan, 38, officially retired from international cricket in August 2024 after a distinguished career representing India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is. Known as one of India’s most consistent opening batsmen, he has scored over 10,000 runs across formats and has been a key player in ICC events, where his performances have earned him widespread recognition. Since his retirement, Dhawan has played in the Legends League Cricket (LLC) and will participate in the Big Bash League (BBL) later this year. His presence in the NPL is expected to bring a fresh wave of enthusiasm and international visibility to Nepalese cricket.
Nepal Premier League: The Tournament and Players
The NPL, organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), is set to debut as an eight-team tournament, running from November 30 to December 21, 2024. Modeled on the popular Indian Premier League (IPL) format, the tournament will feature a round-robin stage followed by knockout rounds, including two qualifiers, an eliminator, and the grand final.
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Nepal, will host all 32 matches, making it the centerpiece for this exciting tournament. Dhawan will be part of a diverse roster in the league, joining overseas stars such as Martin Guptill, Unmukt Chand, and Chadwick Walton. Karnali Yaks, Dhawan’s team, has already signed prominent players, including Pakistan’s Mohammad Hussain Talat and Hong Kong’s Babar Hayat, bolstering its competitive edge.
Dhawan’s Impact on Karnali Yaks
Dhawan’s signing with Karnali Yaks marks him as the team’s fourth overseas player and the first Indian to join the league, bringing invaluable experience and skill. Known for his aggressive playstyle and ability to anchor the innings, Dhawan’s role will be crucial for Karnali Yaks as they vie for the inaugural NPL title. The Karnali Yaks franchise expressed their excitement, stating, “Thrilled to welcome Shikhar Dhawan to the Nepal Premier League family. Get ready for some incredible cricket action as he brings his unique spirit and determination to the team!”
A Promising Start for the NPL and Nepalese Cricket
With Dhawan’s participation, the NPL is expected to attract significant attention from Indian and international audiences, providing a platform for Nepalese cricket to reach new heights. This collaboration between local and global talent underscores the NPL’s ambition to establish itself as a premier cricket league in Asia. For Nepal’s cricketing community, Dhawan’s presence is an exciting milestone, and the inclusion of world-class players highlights the country’s growing status in international cricket.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the league’s opening match on November 30, where Dhawan and Karnali Yaks will compete in what promises to be a memorable tournament. As the NPL gains momentum, cricket enthusiasts can expect a blend of thrilling performances, rising stars, and seasoned veterans – a truly international spectacle at the heart of Nepal.
Nepal Premier League 2024 Schedule
For those looking to follow the NPL closely, the full schedule can be accessed at: Nepal Premier League 2024 Schedule.
