Paras Khadka Gives Update on Foreign Players and DRS for Nepal Premier League

Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) Secretary Paras Khadka has provided an update on preparations for the upcoming Nepal Premier League (NPL), including the participation of international players and the possible introduction of Decision Review System (DRS) technology.

ICC Approval for Foreign Players Nears Completion

Speaking to journalists following the farewell program for Nepal’s national cricket team heading to the 20th Asian Games, Khadka said the approval process with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for foreign players participating in the NPL is nearing completion.

Former Australian international David Warner has already been announced as one of the major overseas names joining the tournament. Other well-known players, including Sikandar Raza, Shakib Al Hasan and Ravi Bopara, have also reached agreements to participate.

According to Khadka, the remaining ICC approval process is expected to be completed within the next 7 to 10 days.

CAN has indicated that NPL franchises will officially reveal additional foreign players only after the necessary ICC clearance is received.

NPL Preparing for First Use of DRS Technology

Another major development for the upcoming NPL season is the planned introduction of the Decision Review System (DRS).

Khadka said CAN has already conducted trials of DRS technology in cooperation with two companies. The cricket governing body is now collecting feedback from participating teams regarding the accuracy, reliability and overall performance of the systems that were tested.

The final technology will be selected after evaluating the feedback and technical results.

Full World Cup-Level DRS Not Feasible

Khadka also explained that Nepal currently faces resource limitations that make it difficult to implement a full-scale DRS setup similar to the systems used at major international tournaments such as the Cricket World Cup.

However, CAN is exploring a more practical solution that can operate effectively within the country's available resources.

If the tested technology meets the required standards, the NPL could introduce DRS for the first time this season, adding another technological feature to Nepal's premier domestic cricket competition.

NPL Broadcast Details

The upcoming Nepal Premier League will be available to viewers through multiple broadcast platforms.

The tournament will be televised on Star Sports and Himalaya Television, while fans will also be able to watch matches through the Net TV OTT platform.

With international stars expected to join the competition and DRS potentially being introduced, the upcoming NPL season is set to bring several new developments to Nepal's domestic cricket scene.

CAN is continuing preparations for the upcoming Nepal Premier League, with ICC approval for foreign players expected shortly. At the same time, trials of DRS technology are underway as officials assess whether a suitable and affordable system can be implemented. The combination of international players, expanded technology and wider broadcast coverage could further enhance the tournament's profile.