Prime Minister KP Oli Unveils Siddhartha Bank NPL Trophy

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli officially unveiled the trophy for the Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL), set to begin this week. The unveiling ceremony was held on Monday at the Dharahara premises in Sundhara, Kathmandu, in the presence of marquee players from the eight participating teams.

The trophy is crafted using stone sourced from Kalapathar, a significant site near Mount Everest. According to Paras Khadka, Secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), renowned mountaineers Nima Sherpa and Mingma Sherpa transported the stone from Kalapathar. Both mountaineers were present at the event, adding a special touch to the occasion.

Speaking at the ceremony, PM Oli emphasized the significance of the event, calling it a milestone for Nepal’s sports sector. He expressed optimism that NPL would elevate Nepalese cricket to new heights and inspire the youth. He also lauded cricket for becoming a symbol of aspiration for the younger generation in Nepal.

Oli encouraged the players and captains of the eight teams with personalized words of appreciation, extending his best wishes for their success. He highlighted the league’s potential to boost tourism and create opportunities for young talent to compete on international platforms. Additionally, he suggested that CAN organize a women’s NPL, promising his support for gender inclusivity in sports.

Acknowledging the limited investment from the government in sports, PM Oli admitted his dissatisfaction with the current state of funding and pledged to improve it. Youth and Sports Minister Tej Lal Chaudhary praised NPL for gaining national and international attention, while Member Secretary Tank Lal Ghising extended his good wishes to the teams.

CAN President Chatur Bahadur Chand thanked all stakeholders involved in organizing the event. The ceremony was attended by CAN officials, NPL team owners, and several dignitaries.

The eagerly anticipated NPL will commence on Saturday, with the opening match featuring Biratnagar Kings and Janakpur Bolts. The tournament is set to captivate cricket fans and showcase top-tier talent from Nepal and abroad.