The Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season 3 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions of Nepal's franchise cricket tournament, with international cricket stars adding experience, quality and global attention to the competition.

The third season is scheduled to run from October 26 to November 21, 2026, with eight franchise teams competing for the NPL title.

One of the biggest attractions of NPL Season 3 is the arrival and return of overseas cricketers from different cricketing nations. Names such as David Warner, Shakib Al Hasan, Sikandar Raza, Jimmy Neesham, Charith Asalanka and Scott Kuggeleijn have generated significant interest among Nepali cricket fans.

The supplied NPL Season 3 graphic lists 20 overseas players representing 12 countries across the eight franchises. However, overseas signing announcements can change as teams finalize their squads, so individual availability and final match-day participation should be checked against the latest team or league announcements.

NPL Season 3 at a Glance

The NPL's growing international profile reflects the wider development of cricket in Nepal. Reuters reported in August that the country's cricket rise has attracted increasing international attention, while the NPL has become an important part of Nepal's cricket ecosystem.

NPL Season 3 Overseas Players: Complete Team-Wise List

The following list follows the overseas-player graphic provided for this article.

1. Janakpur Bolts

The Janakpur Bolts are among the teams attracting attention through their international recruits. Their listed overseas players include experienced names from New Zealand, the United States and Pakistan.

Jimmy Neesham – New Zealand

Jimmy Neesham is one of the most recognizable international names associated with the Janakpur Bolts.

The New Zealand all-rounder brings experience from international cricket as well as franchise T20 cricket around the world. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable type of player in the T20 format.

Harmeet Singh – USA

Harmeet Singh represents the United States and adds another international dimension to the Janakpur squad.

His inclusion highlights the increasingly diverse cricketing background of players entering the NPL.

Iftikhar Ahmed – Pakistan

Iftikhar Ahmed is an experienced Pakistan international known for his all-round abilities and middle-order batting.

His experience in high-level T20 cricket could provide Janakpur with additional depth and flexibility.

Janakpur Bolts' listed overseas players:

• Jimmy Neesham – New Zealand

• Harmeet Singh – USA

• Iftikhar Ahmed – Pakistan

2. Pokhara Avengers

The Pokhara Avengers are another franchise with an internationally recognized name among their listed overseas players.

Shakib Al Hasan – Bangladesh

Few overseas names generate as much attention as Shakib Al Hasan.

The Bangladeshi all-rounder has enjoyed a long international career and has played franchise cricket in several major competitions. His experience in T20 cricket makes him an especially interesting addition to the NPL.

For Nepali fans, the opportunity to watch an established international all-rounder competing in Nepal adds another level of excitement to Season 3.

Dhananjaya Lakshan – Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan cricketer Dhananjaya Lakshan is also listed with the Pokhara Avengers.

Sri Lanka has a strong tradition of producing quality cricketers, particularly in the T20 and limited-overs formats, making his presence another international connection for the NPL.

Pokhara Avengers' listed overseas players:

• Shakib Al Hasan – Bangladesh

• Dhananjaya Lakshan – Sri Lanka

3. Lumbini Lions

The Lumbini Lions, the defending champions according to current NPL coverage, have also attracted international attention through their overseas selections.

Ruben Trumpelmann – Namibia

Ruben Trumpelmann brings experience from Namibia and adds international bowling quality to the competition.

Namibia has become an increasingly competitive force in international limited-overs cricket, and the inclusion of a Namibian player further expands the NPL's international reach.

Niroshan Dickwella – Sri Lanka

Niroshan Dickwella is an experienced Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter.

His experience behind the stumps and with the bat could provide valuable balance to the Lumbini squad.

Lumbini Lions' listed overseas players:

• Ruben Trumpelmann – Namibia

• Niroshan Dickwella – Sri Lanka

4. Sudurpaschim Royals

The Sudurpaschim Royals have consistently been one of the competitive sides in the NPL, and their international recruitment adds further depth to their squad.

Saif Ali Zaib – England

Saif Ali Zaib is listed as one of the Royals' overseas players.

The English all-rounder has previous NPL experience. Reports on his return describe him as the Royals' first overseas signing for Season 3 and note his previous contribution of 275 runs and 12 wickets in nine NPL matches.

Scott Kuggeleijn – New Zealand

Scott Kuggeleijn adds New Zealand experience to the Royals.

As a bowling all-rounder with international and franchise cricket experience, he gives the team another option when constructing its playing XI.

Brandon McMullen – Scotland

Brandon McMullen represents Scotland and brings another emerging international cricketing nation into the NPL spotlight.

His presence also demonstrates how the league is attracting players from beyond the traditional major cricket nations.

Sudurpaschim Royals' listed overseas players:

• Saif Ali Zaib – England

• Scott Kuggeleijn – New Zealand

• Brandon McMullen – Scotland

5. Chitwan Rhinos

The Chitwan Rhinos have also added international experience to their squad.

Ravi Bopara – England

Ravi Bopara is an experienced English cricketer with extensive professional and franchise cricket experience.

His experience across different formats and competitions can be particularly valuable in a T20 tournament where tactical decision-making and adaptability are important.

Sikandar Raza – Zimbabwe

Sikandar Raza is one of the biggest names associated with the Chitwan Rhinos.

The Zimbabwe international has played extensively in franchise cricket and has experience in competitions including the IPL, PSL, CPL and ILT20. His signing was reported as a major addition to Chitwan's squad for NPL Season 3.

Raza's ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him one of the players fans will be watching closely.

Kaleem Sana – Canada

Kaleem Sana represents Canada and adds another international cricket nation to the NPL.

His inclusion further highlights the league's growing geographical diversity.

Chitwan Rhinos' listed overseas players:

• Ravi Bopara – England

• Sikandar Raza – Zimbabwe

• Kaleem Sana – Canada

6. Kathmandu Gorkhas

The Kathmandu Gorkhas have arguably attracted some of the biggest international attention heading into Season 3.

K. S. Bharat – India

K. S. Bharat is an experienced Indian wicketkeeper-batter.

He has represented India in Test cricket and has also played franchise cricket. His experience behind the stumps combined with his batting ability gives Kathmandu another experienced option. 

Sahan Arachchige – Sri Lanka

Sahan Arachchige represents Sri Lanka and adds further international depth to the Kathmandu squad.

David Warner – Australia

The biggest headline name among Kathmandu's overseas recruits is undoubtedly David Warner.

The former Australian opener is one of the most accomplished T20 and international batters of his generation. Kathmandu Gorkhas officially announced Warner as one of their foreign signings, creating significant excitement among Nepali cricket supporters. 

Warner has represented Australia in all three formats and has been a major figure in international and franchise cricket. Kathmandu Post reported that he had scored nearly 19,000 international runs and 49 international centuries across his career at the time of his NPL announcement.

His arrival could be particularly significant for the NPL because international superstars can help increase the league's visibility among global cricket audiences.

Kathmandu Gorkhas' listed overseas players:

• K. S. Bharat – India

• Sahan Arachchige – Sri Lanka

• David Warner – Australia

7. Karnali Yaks

The Karnali Yaks also feature international players on the supplied list.

Akbar Ali – Bangladesh

Akbar Ali represents Bangladesh and adds another South Asian international connection to the NPL.

Mark Watt – Scotland

Mark Watt is a Scottish international cricketer known for his left-arm spin.

His experience in limited-overs cricket could make him an interesting tactical option for the Karnali Yaks, particularly on conditions where spin bowling becomes influential.

Karnali Yaks' listed overseas players:

• Akbar Ali – Bangladesh

• Mark Watt – Scotland

8. Biratnagar Kings

The Biratnagar Kings have also strengthened their international profile.

Charith Asalanka – Sri Lanka

Charith Asalanka is one of Sri Lanka's notable modern limited-overs batters.

His ability to perform in the middle order makes him an attractive player for T20 cricket, where teams need batters capable of adapting quickly to changing match situations.

Shubham Ranjane – USA

Shubham Ranjane is listed as representing the United States.

His inclusion adds another USA connection to the NPL and further expands the range of cricketing nations represented in the tournament.

Biratnagar Kings' listed overseas players:

• Charith Asalanka – Sri Lanka

• Shubham Ranjane – USA

Why Are Overseas Players Important for NPL Season 3?

The arrival of international players is about much more than adding famous names to team sheets.

1. International experience

Experienced overseas players have played in different conditions, leagues and pressure situations. Their knowledge can help teams make better tactical decisions during important matches.

2. Learning opportunities for Nepali players

Playing alongside international professionals can provide Nepali cricketers with valuable exposure.

Young players can learn about:

• Match preparation

• T20 tactics

• Batting approaches

• Bowling variations

• Fielding standards

• Fitness

• Professional cricket routines

This type of interaction can contribute to the long-term development of Nepali cricket.

3. More global attention

International stars can introduce the NPL to fans outside Nepal.

A player such as David Warner, for example, has a large international following. His participation can naturally bring additional attention to the league and Kathmandu Gorkhas.

4. Higher competition

Overseas professionals increase competition for places in the playing XI.

This can push domestic players to improve their performance and maintain high standards throughout the tournament.

5. Greater entertainment value

T20 cricket is built around entertainment, big performances and individual match-winning moments.

Having established international players increases the possibility of exciting performances and memorable matches.

David Warner: One of NPL Season 3's Biggest Attractions

David Warner's signing is arguably one of the strongest international headlines of NPL Season 3.

Kathmandu Gorkhas announced Warner in September 2026, with the former Australian opener expressing excitement about coming to Nepal and joining the franchise. 

Warner has extensive experience in international cricket and franchise leagues. He was also the leading run-scorer in several IPL seasons and helped Sunrisers Hyderabad win the IPL title in 2016. 

For Nepal, having a player with that level of international experience compete in the NPL represents an important milestone for the league's growing profile.

Shakib Al Hasan Adds Another Global Superstar

Shakib Al Hasan is another major international name listed for NPL Season 3.

The Bangladeshi all-rounder has built a long career at international level and is widely experienced in T20 cricket.

His presence with the Pokhara Avengers could provide:

• International experience

• All-round balance

• Spin-bowling options

• Middle-order stability

• T20 tactical knowledge

For Nepali cricket fans, watching an internationally established all-rounder compete in a domestic franchise league is another indication of the NPL's growing appeal.

Sikandar Raza Brings Franchise Cricket Experience

Sikandar Raza's signing is another notable development.

The Zimbabwean all-rounder has appeared in multiple major franchise competitions, giving him valuable experience in different T20 environments. His signing with Chitwan Rhinos was reported ahead of the third NPL season.

His all-round abilities could make him particularly important because T20 teams value players who can contribute in more than one discipline.

The NPL's Growing International Identity

Nepal's cricket journey has developed rapidly over recent years.

The NPL is playing an increasingly important role in that journey by bringing together domestic talent and international professionals.

Reuters reported that the International Cricket Council has recognized Nepal's remarkable rise and that the country has received substantial investment in cricket development. 

The presence of international players in the NPL therefore has significance beyond the tournament itself. It can help create opportunities for:

• Player development

• International networking

• Coaching knowledge

• Franchise cricket experience

• Global media exposure

• Commercial growth

• Fan engagement

NPL Season 3 Teams

Eight franchises are expected to compete in Season 3:

1. Janakpur Bolts

2. Pokhara Avengers

3. Lumbini Lions

4. Sudurpaschim Royals

5. Chitwan Rhinos

6. Kathmandu Gorkhas

7. Karnali Yaks

8. Biratnagar Kings

The eight-team structure gives the tournament representation across different regions and cricketing communities of Nepal. 

NPL Season 3 Overseas Players by Country

Based on the supplied graphic, the overseas-player group represents a broad range of cricketing nations.

The countries shown include:

• Australia

• Bangladesh

• Canada

• England

• India

• Namibia

• New Zealand

• Pakistan

• Scotland

• Sri Lanka

• United States

• Zimbabwe

This international spread is one of the most interesting aspects of the third NPL season.

Rather than relying only on players from a few traditional cricketing countries, the league is connecting Nepal with players from established cricket nations as well as emerging cricket markets.

What Overseas Players Could Mean for Nepali Cricket

The biggest long-term benefit of international participation could be the learning experience it provides to Nepal's domestic players.

Young Nepali cricketers can share dressing rooms with professionals who have played international cricket and major franchise competitions.

That environment can help players understand what it takes to perform at a higher level.

The NPL can therefore function not only as a competition but also as an important development platform for Nepal's next generation of cricketers.

What Fans Can Expect From NPL Season 3

With eight franchises, international players and Nepal's leading domestic cricketers, Season 3 is expected to generate significant interest among cricket supporters.

Fans can expect a combination of:

International stars: Players with experience from Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and other cricketing nations.

Nepali talent: Established national players and emerging domestic cricketers competing alongside international professionals.

T20 entertainment: Short, high-intensity matches where momentum can change quickly.

Regional rivalry: Eight franchises representing different parts of Nepal competing for the championship.

Global exposure: International players and increased media attention helping introduce Nepal's franchise cricket to a wider audience.

Final Thoughts

NPL Season 3 is set to be another major step in the development of franchise cricket in Nepal.

The overseas-player list brings together an impressive mix of experience, youth and international diversity. From David Warner and Shakib Al Hasan to Sikandar Raza, Jimmy Neesham, Charith Asalanka and other international players, the tournament has plenty of names capable of attracting attention.

More importantly, these international signings can create valuable opportunities for Nepali players to learn, compete and develop alongside professionals from different cricketing backgrounds.

With the tournament scheduled from October 26 to November 21, 2026, cricket fans in Nepal will have plenty to look forward to as the eight franchises battle for NPL Season 3 glory. 

For the latest squad updates, player availability and final playing XIs, readers should check the latest official team and league announcements, as overseas contracts and availability can change before the tournament begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many teams are playing in NPL Season 3?

Eight franchise teams are participating in Nepal Premier League Season 3: Janakpur Bolts, Pokhara Avengers, Lumbini Lions, Sudurpaschim Royals, Chitwan Rhinos, Kathmandu Gorkhas, Karnali Yaks and Biratnagar Kings.

When does NPL Season 3 start?

NPL Season 3 is scheduled to begin on October 26, 2026, and run through November 21, according to current tournament information. 

Who is the biggest overseas name in NPL Season 3?

David Warner is arguably the biggest international headline name, following his signing with Kathmandu Gorkhas. 

Which team has Shakib Al Hasan?

Shakib Al Hasan is listed with the Pokhara Avengers in the supplied Season 3 overseas-player graphic.

Which team has Sikandar Raza?

Sikandar Raza has joined the Chitwan Rhinos for NPL Season 3. 

Which team has David Warner?

David Warner has joined the Kathmandu Gorkhas for NPL Season 3.

Why are overseas players important to the NPL?

Overseas players bring international experience, different playing styles and professional knowledge while also helping increase the NPL's international visibility.