CAN Highlights NPL ICC Sanction as Arjun Kumal Scores First ODI Half-Century

The Cricket Association of Nepal held a press conference on Saturday at the TU Cricket Ground in Kathmandu to address recent developments surrounding the Nepal Premier League. Association Secretary Paras Khadka stated that obtaining official approval from the International Cricket Council marks a significant milestone that elevates the profile and credibility of cricket in the country on the international stage. According to details released by the governing body, tournament regulations specify that each squad must include seven domestic players in their line-up. Franchise teams are permitted to register a maximum of eight foreign players. Khadka explained that the competition will be presented with fresh dynamics and confirmed that ICC anti-corruption codes will be fully implemented throughout the tournament to ensure integrity. The press conference also touched upon upcoming discussions involving representatives from various Asian nations. Officials plan to meet to explore future development strategies for the domestic league and cricket as a whole. Khadka emphasised that bringing international operational standards to the event will help build long-term sustainability and strengthen administrative capabilities across domestic competitions. In international action on the same day, opening batsman Arjun Kumal achieved a personal milestone by scoring his first half-century in one-day international cricket. Kumal reached the fifty-run mark while batting at the top of the order for the national team during an ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 fixture against Canada, marking his highest score in the format so far.