KATHMANDU: Biratnagar Kings have signed Sri Lanka international Charith Asalanka as an overseas player for the third season of the Nepal Premier League.
The franchise confirmed Asalanka’s arrival through its official social media channels on Thursday, introducing the Sri Lankan with the message: “The Kingdom welcomes a King.”
The 29-year-old is a powerful left-handed middle-order batter who can also contribute with right-arm off-spin. His ability to control an innings before accelerating makes him a significant addition to a Biratnagar side looking to take the final step after reaching Qualifier 2 last season.
Asalanka is currently leading Sri Lanka in their T20I series against England after regular captain Kusal Mendis was ruled out through injury. He has also held prominent leadership roles for his country, including captaining the ODI side.
He made his international debut in 2021 and quickly established himself as an important member of Sri Lanka’s white-ball teams. One of his earliest standout performances came at the 2021 T20 World Cup, where he scored 231 runs in six matches.
Asalanka has also recorded five ODI centuries, including a career-best 127 against Australia in Colombo in February 2025. His experience extends beyond international cricket, with appearances in competitions including the Lanka Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, Pakistan Super League and ILT20.
At Biratnagar, he will join a domestic core led by Nepal captain Sandeep Lamichhane. The Kings retained Sandeep alongside Basir Ahamad, Lokesh Bam, Narayan Joshi, Pratish GC and Subash Bhandari ahead of the new season.
Biratnagar produced their best NPL campaign in 2025, finishing inside the top two during the league stage and reaching Qualifier 2. Their title challenge ended after successive playoff defeats against Sudurpaschim Royals and eventual champions Lumbini Lions.
Asalanka’s arrival provides Biratnagar with an experienced middle-order option capable of handling spin and increasing the scoring rate during the latter stages of an innings. His part-time off-spin also gives the franchise additional flexibility when selecting its playing XI.
The third season of the NPL is scheduled to begin in Kathmandu on October 26.
Asalanka joins a growing list of established international cricketers announced for NPL 2026, further strengthening the competition’s overseas profile.
