Star Sports has set to broadcast the inaugural season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024, bringing Nepalese cricket to millions of viewers across South Asia. This announcement came through Subodh Tripati, owner of the Pokhara Avengers, who mentioned that the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) informed teams about the partnership. This decision to air the games on Star Sports is a major step for Nepalese cricket, allowing fans from around the region to watch the league’s fast-paced matches live.
“To make the Nepal Premier League (NPL) truly world-class, quality production and broadcasting are key. We’ve been actively engaging with top-tier companies for this purpose. Talks with Star Sports have now reached the final phase, and an official announcement on this exciting development is coming soon.” Roshan Niraula, CEO of Brand LogiQ and strategic partner for NPL, has emphasised that the successful completion of these discussions will elevate the league’s status and viewership.
NPL 2024 and the Teams
The NPL 2024 will feature eight franchise teams, each representing a region of Nepal, including:
1. Pokhara Avengers – The highest-bid team, owned by Nepal T20 Pvt. Ltd.
2. Kathmandu Gurkhas – Backed by Kantipur Publications.
3. Janakpur Bolts – Supported by Dreams Sports.
4. Lumbini Lions – Owned by Fortuna Health Care.
5. Chitwan Rhinos – Owned by Chitwan Medical College.
6. Sudurpashchim Royals – Backed by Empire Sports.
7. Biratnagar Kings – Funded by M.A.D Dreams Sports.
8. Karnali Yaks – Owned by Himalayan Builders .
These teams are expected to bring an exciting blend of local Nepalese talent and well-known international players, promising a competitive and thrilling debut season.
What to Expect from the NPL 2024?
The Nepal Premier League will use the T20 format—a short, action-packed game style that’s popular worldwide. Each match will be 20 overs, with a round-robin format that guarantees multiple games per team, ensuring that every match counts toward making the playoffs.
Tribhuvan University’s cricket grounds have received significant upgrades to improve the fan experience:
1. Dedicated Fan Sections: Four separate sections will be designated for fans, with food stalls and well-maintained restrooms conveniently located outside each section.
2. Premium Ticket Sales: A new, limited premium ticket tier will offer fans exclusive benefits and boost ticketing profits.
3. Media Box: The former VIP zone will be transformed into a modern media box for reporters and broadcasters.
4. VVIP Section: The top floor of the original casting building will be revamped as a VVIP section for high-profile guests.
5. Digital Scoreboard: A digital scoreboard will be introduced, providing fans with real-time scores, statistics, and visuals.
6. Special Areas for Team Owners and Sponsors: An exclusive space for team owners, their families, and sponsors will enhance their experience.
7. New Pitch and Boundary Adjustments: The ground will feature a freshly-prepared pitch and an extended boundary line ranging from 65 to 80 meters, creating new playing dynamics for the league.
How to watch NPL 2024 in your region ?
With Star Sports on board as a broadcast partner, the NPL is expected to boost cricket’s popularity in Nepal, showcasing local talent on an international stage. This exposure could open doors for Nepalese players to reach bigger leagues, and the local economy might benefit, with hotels, restaurants, and local vendors seeing an increase in business as fans travel to watch the games.
For now, Star Sports will broadcast the NPL for viewers in South Asia, while other channels for different regions are yet to be confirmed. Stay tuned for more updates on additional broadcasting channels, match schedules, and player lineups as the NPL gears up for an exciting first season!
