Pokhara Avengers have confirmed that Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will be available for the entire Nepal Premier League Season 3 campaign. The franchise stated on its official Instagram account that Shakib “is all set to play the full season with the Pokhara Avengers,” providing clarity ahead of the tournament’s start.⁠

The confirmation matters for the Avengers because earlier reports had left open the possibility that Shakib’s other franchise commitments could limit his availability. With the full campaign now secured, Pokhara can plan around one of the most experienced T20 all-rounders in the competition from the opening match onward.

Shakib joins as the franchise’s marquee overseas signing. He offers left-arm orthodox spin through the middle overs and a left-handed batting option in the top six. Captain Kushal Bhurtel leads the side, with former Sri Lanka spinner Ajantha Mendis as head coach. The combination gives Pokhara a clearer balance between domestic power and overseas control than in previous seasons.

The Avengers finished outside the playoffs in the first two editions of the league. Their 2025 campaign ended in fifth place. Full availability of Shakib strengthens their push for a first knockout appearance, particularly at Kirtipur, where spin can be effective.

Recent squad additions complement him. Pokhara have also signed fellow Bangladesh all-rounder Mahedi Hasan, along with Sri Lankan all-rounders Dhananjaya Lakshan and Chamika Karunaratne. The overseas group now gives the coaching staff multiple options for balance without relying on one player for both batting and bowling depth.

With Shakib available throughout, the franchise can use him across the full seven-match league stage rather than managing availability windows. That continuity is useful in a short tournament where momentum and net-run-rate calculations often decide playoff places.

Shakib arrives with a long T20 record that includes more than 500 wickets and nearly 8,000 runs across franchise leagues, plus 149 wickets and 2,551 runs in 129 T20 Internationals for Bangladesh. His presence also adds experience in high-pressure situations that younger domestic players in the squad can draw on during the campaign.

The tournament begins in four days. Pokhara’s first opportunity to deploy Shakib will come against Sudurpaschim Royals on 28 October at Kirtipur.