Kathmandu, August 25, 2026 — New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham is returning to Janakpur Bolts for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), the franchise announced on Tuesday.
The 35-year-old played an important role in Janakpur’s title-winning campaign in the inaugural NPL season in 2024. He scored 247 runs in nine matches at a strike rate of 196.03 and an average of 35.29, while also taking seven wickets. His explosive scoring earned him the tournament’s Best Strike Rate award.
“Jimmy has earned a special place not only on the field but also in the hearts of our supporters. His loyalty and relationship with Janakpur Bolts is a beautiful story in itself. The hero of our championship-winning first season has returned home once again,” Janakpur Bolts chief executive officer Niroj Khatiwada said in a statement.
Neesham could not continue with Janakpur in the second season because the franchise did not have a capped-player slot available. He subsequently joined Pokhara Avengers, making four appearances and scoring 99 runs, including a half-century, while taking five wickets.
He will return to Janakpur this season under the Test-category overseas player quota.
