Kathmandu. As anticipation builds for the upcoming Siddharth Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024, Ncell and the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) have reached a collaboration agreement. Under this partnership, Ncell would power up this cricket carnival for Nepali fans, contributing to helping in building up Nepal’s own home-grown cricket talents.
In this NPL, a professional franchise-based T20 tournament, Ncell is collaborating with Cricket Association of Nepal as the ‘Powered By’ partner. An agreement to effect was reached by Jabbor Kayumov, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ncell, and Paras Khadka, Secretary of CAN, at a meeting last week.
This collaboration aligns with Ncell’s theme ‘Here for You’ and commitment to supporting the development of cricket and sports in Nepal. Cricket is one of the most popular sporting activities of the sub-continent. What is special is that international players and world-class production of the tournament, which will be aired by an international sports channel.
Ncell’s philosophy of keeping Nepal and consumers connected resonates with the sentiment and passion for the game of world-class cricketing activity, especially when it has a local provincial identity, with 7 provinces pitching their cricket talent with their unmatched blend of local and international skills. It is a moment that encapsulates Ncell’s connection to the sport that is lot more at play than just cricket. It’s more about connectivity, with sports and Nepal.
Jabbor said, “Following the resounding 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 elated to announce this partnership with CAN for Nepal premier League powered by Ncell, which aims to provide Nepal’s cricketers with excellent exposure and a platform to showcase their immense talent. This is a testament to the immense value and appeal we place on sports in Nepal. Our commitment to cricket and sports is truly commendable, and we look forward to reaching new heights together, contributing to the development of sports, youth empowerment, and social unity. This collaboration embodies the spirit of growth, innovation, and a mutual dedication to excellence and is a significant milestone in Nepal’s cricketing journey.”
This investment is for us to not only promote sport talent in Nepal but also for the viewers and fans who make such tournaments successful. This collaboration is also about acknowledging the sporting and supporting spirit of the Nepali audience around the world, who have created viral fan moments in recent global tournaments.
Ncell will also be enabling on-the-go viewership of the matches through Live screening. Also, it will be making running multiple on-ground activations and bring offers for the customers during the tournament period.
The tournament will feature a total of 32 intense matches with 160 cricketers from 8 teams, scheduled to begin on November 30 and run until December 21 in Kathmandu, Nepal. All matches will be held at the Tribhuwan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. The eight teams will compete in a round-robin format, each representing major cities: Biratnagar, Chitwan, Janakpur, Karnali, Kathmandu, Lumbini, Pokhara, and Sudurpashim.
“NPL’s goal is to support the development of cricket and our players. Similarly, we want to establish NPL as one of the world’s most renowned cricket leagues, and we are grateful to Ncell, a consistent supporter of sports, for this collaboration as we pursue our long-term goals,” said Khadka.
As a responsible corporate citizen, Ncell has contributed significantly to sports development and talent nurturing in Nepal since its inception. The company has supported cricket, football, volleyball, golf, and para-athletes in various national and international events.
Earlier this year, Ncell supported the ‘Triangular T20i Series 2024,’ ICC League 2, and the Nepal-Canada ODI Series. Ncell also supported various football events, including the Birgunj Gold Cup and Jhapa Gold Cup.
Previously, demonstrating its commitment to sports, Ncell collaborated with the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) for the A Division, U-16 Football, Women’s National Championship, and Women’s National Team events. In 2014, with technical support from CAN, Ncell organized the first-ever domestic cricketing event—the Ncell Nepal Premier League.
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Ncell has been collaborating with the National Paralympic Committee (NPC), Nepal since last year to support the national para-athlete team. In September, after Para Taekwondo player Palesha Goverdhan’s historic win at the Paris Paralympics 2024, the Ncell Foundation rewarded her with NPR 1 million. Other Paralympics team members also received cash prizes.
Through this partnership, Ncell continues to support the overall training and development of national players, providing essential diet and nutrition throughout the year. Likewise, Ncell under its CSR has also rebuilt Lainchaur Ground as a multipurpose ground to support development of sports.
Additionally, Ncell organizes an annual invitational corporate golf tournament, including the recent ‘Ncell Corporate Golf Tournament’ held two weeks ago. Recognizing the importance of sports, Ncell prioritizes growth and development in the field.
