ICC Recognition, DRS Technology and Global Stars Set to Elevate NPL Season 3

Nepal Premier League (NPL), branded as the “Festival of Himalayas,” is set to begin on Monday, October 26. The third season of the tournament will run until November 21 at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu.

The latest edition is expected to be a major milestone for Nepali cricket, with International Cricket Council (ICC) recognition, the introduction of the Decision Review System (DRS), and the participation of internationally renowned cricketers making the tournament more competitive and appealing than its previous editions.

ICC Recognition Marks a Major Milestone

The ICC’s official recognition of the third season is considered a significant achievement for Nepali cricket. Beyond formal approval, the recognition reflects growing international credibility for the country’s domestic cricket competition.

With this recognition, NPL matches have official T20 status, meaning runs scored and wickets taken by players will count toward their official T20 career records.

The recognition is also expected to make it easier for franchises to attract active international cricketers. Previously, the absence of official recognition had made some active international players hesitant to participate in the tournament.

Under the revised arrangements, each franchise can sign up to eight overseas players, including one from an Associate nation. However, the playing XI can include a maximum of four overseas players and must feature at least one player from an Associate nation.

DRS Technology to Improve Decision-Making

Another major highlight of NPL Season 3 is the introduction of the Decision Review System (DRS), a technology designed to help teams challenge on-field umpiring decisions and improve the accuracy of match officiating.

For leg-before-wicket (LBW) decisions, 3D ball-tracking technology will be used to assess the ball’s trajectory, bounce and projected impact with the stumps. Edge detection and sound-wave technology will help determine whether the ball has made contact with the bat.

Video reviews will also assist with decisions involving run-outs, stumpings, front-foot no-balls, wide-ball height and the measurement of sixes. Each team will reportedly receive two reviews per innings.

According to Nepal Cricket Association (CAN) Secretary Paras Khadka, the cost of implementing DRS will be shared between CAN and the eight franchises. The estimated expenditure is around NPR 20 million.

As the technology could add approximately 30 minutes to match duration, CAN has reportedly adjusted the initial match schedule to accommodate the additional time.

Anti-Corruption Measures Under Increased Scrutiny

The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit is expected to monitor the tournament to prevent match-fixing and other corrupt practices. Monitoring will cover match venues, dressing rooms and team activities.

Foreign players, including retired cricketers, must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their respective cricket boards. In addition, players who have participated in an unrecognised private league during the six months preceding the start of NPL will not be eligible to participate, according to the stated regulations.

These measures are intended to strengthen the integrity and credibility of the competition.

International Stars Add to the Excitement

Previous NPL seasons attracted prominent international cricketers, including India’s Shikhar Dhawan in the inaugural season and South Africa’s Faf du Plessis in the second season. Their participation helped raise the tournament’s profile and promote Nepali cricket internationally.

Season 3 is also attracting a strong lineup of international players.

Former Australia captain David Warner will represent Kathmandu Gorkhas, while West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell will play for Biratnagar Kings.

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is set to represent Pokhara Avengers. England’s Moeen Ali and New Zealand’s Jimmy Neesham will play for Janakpur Bolts.

South African batter David Miller will represent Karnali Yaks, while West Indies batter Sherfane Rutherford will join Sudurpaschim Royals.

Other international cricket personalities are also joining the tournament in off-field roles. Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar is expected to serve as an analyst in the official broadcast produced by Himalayan Sports. Meanwhile, Pokhara Avengers has appointed former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan as its brand ambassador.

With ICC recognition, DRS technology, stronger anti-corruption measures and the participation of international stars, NPL Season 3 is expected to deliver a more competitive and engaging tournament. These developments could also contribute to the professionalisation of Nepali cricket and strengthen its international visibility.