The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has been instructed to halt all activities related to the second edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) until an ongoing investigation into the first season is completed.
The investigation stems from complaints filed with the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) regarding irregularities during the inaugural season of the NPL, held from November 29 to December 21, 2024.
The league attracted significant attention both domestically and internationally, with impressive viewership, a strong fan presence, and high-quality cricket. Janakpur Bolts emerged as the first season's champions, with star players like Shikhar Dhawan, Martin Guptill, Jimmy Neesham, and Ben Cutting participating in the tournament.
The investigation was sparked by a complaint filed even before the league began. On November 22, 2024, concerns were raised over an alleged illegal agreement tied to the league’s tender process. This was followed by a second complaint two months after the season concluded. In response to the new complaint, the CIAA sent a letter to the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
The National Sports Council (NSC), which established the investigation committee, has now formally asked CAN to refrain from proceeding with any preparations for the second season of the NPL until the investigation is fully resolved. The committee’s request for a clear and prompt response from CAN is expected soon, as the investigation continues to unfold.
Chatur Bahadur Chand, President of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), announced that a board meeting will be held at the end of July, during which all matters related to the Nepal Premier League (NPL) will be discussed and made public. "Our board meeting is scheduled for the end of July. After reviewing everything in the meeting, we will share the details with the government and the National Sports Council (NSC)," said Chand. He further emphasized that the second edition of the NPL will be even more spectacular, adding, "I don’t see any reason to halt the NPL."
As the NPL’s second season approaches, the delay caused by this investigation has put a temporary hold on the league’s progress, despite the positive impact and success of the inaugural edition.
