Preparations for third edition of Nepal Premier League enter final stage

Kathmandu, October 7, 2026 — 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 improve the experience of 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.”

CAN is addressing management problems observed during the previous season while adding new facilities at the ground. With NPL matches attracting large crowds, efforts are underway to increase seating capacity by making maximum use of the 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 their departure after matches.

Spectators faced problems related to toilets, dust and movement around the venue during the previous edition. Khadka said CAN is working to prevent such 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 attend despite the timing. He said the tournament schedule was determined primarily by the international cricket calendar, other franchise leagues and the availability of foreign players.

Teams have also stepped up efforts to sign prominent international cricketers for the third season. CAN expects their participation to further increase interest in the league.