KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 19

Ncell has partnered with the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) as the 'Powered By' sponsor for the upcoming Siddharth Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024.

Under this partnership, Ncell would power up this cricket carnival for Nepali fans, contributing to helping in building up Nepal's own home-grown cricket talents, according to the Ncell.

The professional franchise-based T20 tournament, featuring eight teams and 32 matches, is scheduled to begin on November 30 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. The eight teams compete in a round-robin format, each representing major cities: Biratnagar, Chitwan, Janakpur, Karnali, Kathmandu, Lumbini, Pokhara, and Sudurpashim, culminating in the finals on December 21.

The agreement was formalized last week between Jabbor Kayumov, Managing Director and CEO of Ncell, and Paras Khadka, Secretary of CAN.

This collaboration underscores Ncell's theme, 'Here for You', and commit commitment to supporting the development of cricket and sports in Nepal, the company stated in the press release.

''Cricket is one of the most popular sporting activities of the sub-continet. What is special is that international players and world-class production of the tournament which will be aired by an international sports channel.''

Ncell's philosophy of keeping Nepal and consumers connected resonates with the sentiment and passion for the game of world-class cricketing activity, especially when it has a local provincial identity, with 7 provinces pitching their cricket talent with their unmatched blend of local and international skills. It is a moment that encapsulates Ncell's connection to the sport that is lot more at play than just cricket. It's more about connectivity, with sports and Nepal, the company added.

'Following the resounding achievement of the U-19 women's cricket team qualifying for the ICC Women's U-19 T20 World Cup for the first time, we are elated to announce this partnership with CAN for Nepal premier League powered by Ncell, which aims to provide Nepal's cricketers with excellent exposure and a platform to showcase their immense talent. This is a testament to the immense value and appeal we place on sports in Nepal. Our commitment to cricket and sports is truly commendable, and we look forward to reaching new heights together, contributing to the development of sports, youth empowerment, and social unity. This collaboration embodies the spirit of growth, innovation, and a mutual dedication to excellence and is a significant milestone in Nepal's cricketing journey,' Kayumov said.

Ncell will also be enabling on-the-go viewership of the matches through Live screening. Also, it will be making running multiple on-ground activations and bring offers for the customers during the tournament period, according to the company.

'NPL's goal is to support the development of cricket and our players. Similarly, we want to establish NPL as one of the world's most renowned cricket leagues, and we are grateful to Ncell, a consistent supporter of sports, for this collaboration as we pursue our long-term goals,' said CAN Secretary Khadka.

Ncell has contributed significantly to sports development and talent nurturing in Nepal since its inception. The company has supported cricket, football, volleyball, golf, and para-athletes at national and international levels.

This year, Ncell sponsored the Triangular T20i Series, ICC League 2, and Nepal-Canada ODI Series, along with football events like the Birgunj and Jhapa Gold Cups. In 2014, Ncell organized Nepal's first domestic cricket league, Ncell Nepal Premier League, with CAN's support and has since collaborated with ANFA on key football initiatives. Under its CSR efforts, Ncell supports the National Paralympic Committee, rewarding Paralympic athletes and aiding training programs. It has also revamped Lainchaur Ground and organizes annual corporate golf tournaments, reinforcing its commitment to sports development, the release further states.