The Nepal Premier League (NPL), officially known as नेपाल प्रिमियर लिग, is Nepal’s first professional Twenty20 (T20) cricket league, set to mark a new chapter in the country’s cricket history. Organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), the inaugural season of this exciting league will take place from November 30 to December 21, 2024. With eight franchise teams representing provinces and cities across Nepal, the NPL promises thrilling cricket action for fans across the country.
Format of the League
The NPL follows a round-robin format, where all teams face each other in the group stages. The top teams from the group stages will advance to the playoffs, competing for the title in knockout matches. This structure ensures maximum competition and gives every team the chance to showcase their skills across multiple matches.
Teams and Players Selection
One of the most exciting aspects of the NPL is its player auction system, similar to other global T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL). Each team can sign a total of 16 players, with a mix of domestic and foreign talent. Here’s a breakdown of the key auction rules:
- Player Auction Structure:
- 10 players are purchased through auction.
- Teams can have up to four foreign players: one marquee player (through a lucky draw) and three additional grade A players.
- Players are divided into Grade A, B, and C, based on their skill levels and performance.
- Player Grade and Salary Structure:
- Grade A players have a base price of रु. 10 lakhs, with salaries going up to रु. 15 lakhs.
- Grade B players are priced between रु. 5 lakhs to रु. 10 lakhs.
- Grade C players are priced between रु. 2 lakhs to रु. 5 lakhs.
- Each franchise is given a salary cap of रु. 90 lakhs to acquire auctioned players.
If more than one team bids the maximum amount for a player, a lottery system will decide the player’s destination. Unsold players from the auction can later be signed as replacement players if needed.
Top Paid Players in the 2024 NPL Auction
Some of Nepal’s top cricket talents were signed for the highest salaries during the auction, reflecting their importance to the league and teams. The highest-paid players, who each received a salary of Rs 15 lakhs, are:
| Player | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Aarif Sheikh | Sudurpaschim Royals (SR) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Anil Sah | Janakpur Bolts (JB) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Bhim Sharki | Kathmandu Gurkhas (KG) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Bibek Yadav | Lumbini Lions (LL) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Gulsan Jha | Karnali Yaks (KY) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Lalit Rajbanshi | Janakpur Bolts (JB) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Lokesh Bam | Biratnagar Kings (BK) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Pratis GC | Biratnagar Kings (BK) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Sagar Dhakal | Pokhara Avengers (PA) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Shahab Alam | Kathmandu Gurkhas (KG) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Surya Tamang | Lumbini Lions (LL) | Rs 15 lakhs |
| Sundeep Jora | Lumbini Lions (LL) | Rs 15 lakhs |
In total, Rs 180 lakhs were spent on these top players, with each earning an average salary of Rs 15 lakhs. These players are expected to play pivotal roles in their respective teams during the inaugural season.
Check out the NPL 2024 Full Players Auction List
The Teams and Their Talent Hunt
The eight franchises in the NPL represent a mix of cities and provinces, ensuring that fans across the nation can cheer for their local heroes. The talent hunt programs, which allow franchises to scout emerging players, have further strengthened the league’s ability to uncover new cricketing talent.
Some of the notable teams include:
- Kathmandu Gurkhas (KG)
- Lumbini Lions (LL)
- Janakpur Bolts (JB)
- Biratnagar Kings (BK)
- Pokhara Avengers (PA)
- Sudurpaschim Royals (SR)
- Karnali Yaks (KY)
Each team is equipped with top-grade players, foreign stars, and local talents that have come through the ranks.
What to Expect from NPL 2024
The inaugural NPL season is poised to become a landmark event in Nepali cricket. For players, it’s an opportunity to shine on a bigger platform, and for fans, it brings the thrill of top-level T20 cricket to home soil.
- Intense competition: With franchises vying for the top spot, every match will be a spectacle of strategy, power-hitting, and crafty bowling.
- Rising stars: Keep an eye on young and emerging talent, especially from the talent hunts and auction pools.
- Global exposure: The inclusion of foreign players adds international experience, helping local cricketers develop their skills in competitive environments.
Conclusion
The Nepal Premier League (NPL) is not just a tournament; it’s a celebration of cricket in Nepal. With a robust player auction system, significant investments in talent, and the backing of Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), the NPL is set to elevate the game in Nepal to new heights. As the league kicks off in November 2024, it’s sure to capture the hearts of cricket fans nationwide.
Let the games begin, and may the best team win!
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