Kathmandu, October 17 (H.S.): The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has announced that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has granted official approval for the organisation of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).

Under the ICC’s conditions, all foreign players participating in the NPL must obtain a mandatory No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from their respective cricket boards. To ensure the integrity of the competition, the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Code will be strictly enforced throughout the tournament.

Speaking at a press conference held on Saturday at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, CAN Secretary Paras Khadka said that ICC approval would give the NPL greater international recognition and enhance its reputation and credibility.

Under ICC regulations, players who have participated in any illegal or unsanctioned cricket competition during the six months preceding the start of the NPL will not be eligible to take part in the tournament.

Foreign players who have retired from international cricket must also complete the NOC process in coordination with their respective domestic cricket boards. CAN said franchise-based cricket carries a heightened risk of match-fixing and spot-fixing. Accordingly, the rules of the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) will be fully enforced throughout the competition.

The process of introducing separate legislation on the issue is underway in Nepal. However, the scope of investigations and disciplinary action during the NPL will be determined in accordance with the ICC’s international code of conduct. According to CAN, these provisions will require players, team owners and other stakeholders to exercise greater vigilance and responsibility.

CAN has also exchanged formal correspondence with the ICC regarding the granting of official T20 status to the NPL. The association expects to receive technical clarification on the matter by Monday.

The process of introducing the Decision Review System (DRS) in the competition is also in its final stage. According to CAN Secretary Paras Khadka, an official decision on the matter is expected to be announced within the next two to three days.

**Playing XI to Include Seven Nepali and Four Foreign Players**

Each NPL franchise will be permitted to sign a maximum of eight foreign players. However, every playing XI must include seven Nepali players and four overseas players.

**ICC Asia Conference to Be Held in Kathmandu**

CAN also announced that the ICC Asia Conference will be held in Kathmandu from November 19 to 21.

The three-day conference will bring together presidents, secretaries and chief executive officers (CEOs) of Test-playing and Associate Member nations from across Asia. Discussions will focus on policy development and other issues concerning the future of Asian cricket.

CAN is also planning to invite foreign delegates to watch the NPL final, with the aim of promoting Nepali cricket and showcasing Nepal’s ability to host international sporting events.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar