ICC Officially Sanctions Third Edition of Nepal Premier League Ahead of October 26 Start The Cricket Association of Nepal confirmed on October 16 that the International Cricket Council has formally sanctioned the third edition of the Siddharth Bank Nepal Premier League. The recognition covers the tournament scheduled to run from October 26 to November 21, 2026, at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.⁠

CAN released a statement signed by Secretary Paras Khadka announcing the sanction. The board said the decision would contribute significantly to the development and expansion of Nepali cricket while strengthening the international standing of the country’s domestic franchise competition. Franchises and administrators had been awaiting written confirmation after earlier positive verbal feedback from the ICC.⁠

The sanction arrives ten days before the league stage begins. Defending champions Lumbini Lions are set to face Sudurpaschim Royals in the opening match on October 26. The knockout stage follows the league matches: Qualifier 1 on November 17, the Eliminator on November 18, Qualifier 2 on November 19, and the Final on November 21.⁠

For NPL teams, the approval provides clearer regulatory ground for overseas player participation. Several high-profile international cricketers had already been linked to franchises, and the sanction removes previous uncertainty that had delayed some formal announcements. CAN has noted that the recognition strengthens the league’s position within ICC frameworks and supports its long-term growth as Nepal’s premier T20 competition.

The timing also aligns with a broader period of international attention on Nepali cricket. Nepal is hosting the ICC Asia Conference from November 19 to 21, and CAN has stated that delegates will attend the Eliminator and Final of NPL III. The combination of formal sanction and the presence of regional cricket administrators during the playoffs gives the tournament added visibility at a key stage of its third season.

Official graphics circulating from CAN and associated partners on October 16 carried the message “OFFICIALLY SANCTIONED – THANK YOU ICC,” featuring the NPL logo against a packed stadium backdrop under floodlights. The announcement marks the first time the league has received this level of formal ICC recognition for a full edition.

With the sanction confirmed and the Asia Conference overlapping, the closing attention now turns to the league stage that begins on October 26 and the playoff matches that visiting delegates are scheduled to watch.