Shikhar Dhawan: 'Excited To Experience The Passion Of Fans in Nepal Premier League'

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Shikhar Dhawan: 'Excited To Experience The Passion Of Fans in Nepal Premier League'
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has expressed his excitement as he prepares to participate in the inaugural season of the Nepal Premier League, set to kick off in Kathmandu on Saturday. The T20 league will feature top international players, with the final scheduled for December 21. All matches will be held at the Tribhuvan University grounds.

Dhawan’s involvement has sparked significant attention in Nepal, and the southpaw shared the reasons behind his decision to join the league.

“I’m thrilled to take part in the inaugural edition of the Nepal Premier League and represent the Karnali Yaks. The passion for cricket in Nepal is evident, and this league will play a big role in further developing the sport in the country,” the 38-year-old Dhawan told FanCode, the official broadcaster of the Nepal Premier League in India.

“With top players from around the world coming to Nepal, young players will gain valuable insights from their experience. I’m eager for the first match to begin and the action to unfold!” said Dhawan, who last played for India in a T20I against Sri Lanka in July 2021.

Other notable players in the league include Ben Cutting, Unmukt Chand, Ravi Bopara, Chadwick Walton, and Marchand de Lange.

The league will feature eight teams representing different regions of Nepal: Kathmandu Gurkhas, Chitwan Rhinos, Biratnagar Kings, Janakpur Bolts, Pokhara Avengers, Lumbini Lions, Karnali Yaks, and Sudurpashchim Royals. A total of 32 matches will be played, with a reserve day for the final.

Nepal has made significant strides in international cricket in recent years, including their participation in the latest ICC T20I World Cup, where they put up a strong fight against eventual finalists South Africa. The league is poised to be a transformative event for Nepali cricket, providing local players with the chance to share the field with international stars.

FanCode will be exclusively streaming the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) in India.