As excitement builds for the upcoming Siddharth Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024, Ncell has announced its collaboration with the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). This partnership will power the much-anticipated cricket carnival, bringing the sport closer to Nepali fans while supporting the growth of local cricket talent.
Ncell has come on board as the ‘Powered By’ partner for the NPL 2024, a professional franchise-based T20 tournament. The agreement was formalized during a meeting last week between Jabbor Kayumov, Managing Director and CEO of Ncell, and Paras Khadka, Secretary of CAN.
This collaboration reflects Ncell’s commitment to its theme ‘Here for You’, aligning with its broader goal of supporting the development of cricket and other sports in Nepal. Cricket has become one of the most popular sports in the region, and Ncell’s partnership with CAN aims to elevate this sport to new heights, offering international exposure and world-class production for the tournament, which will be broadcast globally.
Ncell’s philosophy of keeping Nepal and its consumers connected resonates with the passion for cricket, especially when combined with a local provincial identity. The NPL will feature seven provinces showcasing their cricketing talents, blending local skills with international expertise. This partnership represents more than just cricket; it’s about connectivity, sports, and Nepal coming together in a celebration of national pride.
Jabbor Kayumov expressed his excitement, saying, “After the remarkable achievement of the U-19 women’s cricket team qualifying for the ICC Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup for the first time, we are thrilled to partner with CAN for the NPL 2024, powered by Ncell. This platform will provide Nepal’s cricketers with invaluable exposure and a stage to display their immense talent. It’s a testament to the importance we place on sports in Nepal, and we look forward to reaching new milestones in youth empowerment, social unity, and sports development. This collaboration signifies growth, innovation, and a shared dedication to excellence, marking a significant step in Nepal’s cricketing journey.”
This partnership isn’t just about showcasing talent in Nepal but also about giving back to the fans and viewers who make such tournaments a success. It acknowledges the incredible spirit of Nepali cricket fans worldwide, who have created viral moments during recent global tournaments.
As part of the collaboration, Ncell will offer live screenings of the matches, enabling fans to watch on-the-go. The company will also engage in various on-ground activations and offer special promotions for customers throughout the tournament.
The NPL 2024 will feature 32 thrilling matches with 160 players from 8 teams. The tournament is set to begin on November 30 and run until December 21, with all games taking place at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. The eight teams will compete in a round-robin format, representing key cities across Nepal: Biratnagar, Chitwan, Janakpur, Karnali, Kathmandu, Lumbini, Pokhara, and Sudurpashim.
Paras Khadka, Secretary of CAN, emphasized the importance of the tournament, stating, “The NPL’s goal is to promote the development of cricket and nurture our players. We aim to establish the NPL as one of the world’s most prestigious cricket leagues, and we are incredibly grateful to Ncell, a long-time supporter of sports, for this collaboration as we work towards achieving our long-term objectives.”
Since its inception, Ncell has played a vital role in supporting sports development and nurturing talent in Nepal. The company has backed cricket, football, volleyball, golf, and para-athletes at both national and international events.
Earlier this year, Ncell supported events like the ‘Triangular T20i Series 2024’, ICC League 2, and the Nepal-Canada ODI Series. The company also sponsored various football tournaments, including the Birgunj Gold Cup and Jhapa Gold Cup.
Ncell’s commitment to sports extends beyond cricket. The company has partnered with the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) to support events such as the A Division Football League, U-16 Football Championship, Women’s National Championship, and Women’s National Team events. In 2014, Ncell helped organize Nepal’s first-ever domestic cricket event, the Ncell Nepal Premier League, in collaboration with CAN.
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Ncell has also partnered with the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) to support Nepal’s para-athletes. This year, Ncell rewarded Palesha Goverdhan, who won a historic gold at the Paris Paralympics 2024, with a cash prize of NPR 1 million. Other para-athletes also received recognition and financial support.
In addition to supporting player development through training, diet, and nutrition, Ncell has invested in infrastructure, including the redevelopment of the Lainchaur Ground into a multi-purpose facility for sports development. The company also organizes an annual invitation-only corporate golf tournament, such as the recently held Ncell Corporate Golf Tournament.
With a continued focus on the growth and development of sports in Nepal, Ncell remains a key player in building a strong, united, and vibrant sporting culture in the country.