Siddhartha Bank has been announced as the title sponsor for the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) in what has been described as a “record-breaking sponsorship deal” for Nepali cricket. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and Siddhartha Bank signed a five-year agreement during a ceremony held in Kathmandu on Friday.
CAN Secretary Paras Khadka called the partnership a significant milestone in Nepal’s sports sponsorship history. According to Setopati, Siddhartha Bank will provide CAN with an annual sum of NPR 4 crore, totaling NPR 20 crore over five years.
Siddhartha Bank Chairman Manoj Kumar Kedia emphasized the bank’s long-term commitment to supporting Nepali cricket. “Our motto, ‘Relationship Forever,’ reflects our dedication to strengthening the sport beyond this partnership,” he said. CEO Sundar Prasad Kadel added that the bank plans to collaborate with CAN to expand cricket infrastructure and culture across Nepal.
The NPL, Nepal’s first domestic franchise cricket league under CAN’s ownership, will feature eight franchise teams and take place from November 30 to December 21. However, there will be no matches on December 1 due to by-elections in the country.
A major highlight of the league is its global broadcast on Star Sports, one of the most prominent Indian sports networks. Reflecting on the importance of this achievement, Khadka said, “Nepali fans were emotional when our national team appeared in the ICC World Cup on Star Sports. Now, showcasing our domestic league on this platform demonstrates Nepal’s cricketing growth and potential to the world.”
The broadcasting deal was secured with the assistance of TCM Sports, CAN’s Event Strategy and Marketing Consultant. Khadka praised their efforts, highlighting that it takes strategic planning, not just financial resources, to secure slots on a global channel like Star Sports.
CAN is set to release the NPL fixtures within 48 hours, and franchises are actively signing foreign players as the registration deadline nears, adding excitement to the upcoming tournament. With Siddhartha Bank’s support and global exposure, the NPL promises to be a turning point for Nepali cricket.
