Sri Lankan all-rounder Tharindu Rathnayake will play for Sudurpaschim Royals in the third edition of the Nepal Premier League, according to reports published on 28 October 2026.⁠

The 30-year-old left-handed batter can bowl both right-arm off-spin and left-arm orthodox spin, giving him an unusual ambidextrous skill set that allows him to vary his approach depending on the batter. Multiple Nepali outlets, including OnlineKhabar and Makalu Khabar, reported the move on the same day.⁠

Career Profile and Recent Form

Rathnayake, born on 18 April 1996 in Marawila, has represented Sri Lanka in four T20 Internationals, claiming six wickets and scoring 77 runs with a highest of 65. In broader T20 cricket he has played 88 matches, taking 98 wickets (best figures 4 for 8) and scoring 638 runs. He has also compiled a substantial record in longer formats: 378 wickets and 1,923 runs in 82 first-class matches, plus 133 wickets and 952 runs in 96 List A appearances.⁠

He has featured in domestic Sri Lankan competitions and franchise leagues, including stints with sides such as Dambulla Sixers. His ability to operate with either arm has drawn attention in T20 cricket for the flexibility it offers in the middle overs.

Context for Sudurpaschim Royals

The signing, if confirmed by the franchise, adds another overseas option to a Sudurpaschim Royals squad that has already assembled several international players for NPL Season 3. Confirmed overseas recruits ahead of the tournament included England all-rounder Saif Ali Zaib, New Zealand’s Scott Kuggeleijn, Scotland’s Brandon McMullen, and West Indies players Fabian Allen and Sherfane Rutherford.

The Royals, runners-up in both previous NPL seasons, opened their 2026 campaign with a heavy defeat to defending champions Lumbini Lions. They face Pokhara Avengers on 28 October at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Full fixture details are available on the NPL 2026 schedule.

Under NPL rules for the ICC-sanctioned 2026 season, franchises may register multiple overseas players, but no more than four can feature in any playing XI. Rathnayake’s reported addition gives the side further spin and lower-order batting flexibility within those limits.

No official statement from Sudurpaschim Royals or the Cricket Association of Nepal confirming the signing appeared in the sources reviewed. Availability will still depend on a No Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket and any other administrative clearances required for overseas players. Until the franchise or player confirms the move, the development remains a media report.

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