Sri Lankan cricketers join NPL squads as third season kicks off
Franchises across the Nepal Premier League have bolstered their squads with new Sri Lankan recruits as the third edition of the tournament begins in Kathmandu.
The third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) has commenced in Kathmandu, with several franchises bolstering their rosters with international talent from Sri Lanka. As the tournament gets underway, teams are finalizing their overseas signings to strengthen their competitive edge.
Janakpur Bolts has secured the services of Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Perera. According to My Republica, the franchise announced the signing on its official social media channels, highlighting Perera’s ability to perform under pressure. Perera brings extensive experience from various global franchise leagues, including the Indian Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, and Pakistan Super League. His addition complements Janakpur's existing international lineup, which includes players from England, New Zealand, Pakistan, and the United States.
Meanwhile, the Pokhara Avengers have added Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Sadeera Samarawickrama to their squad. As reported by The Kathmandu Post, the 31-year-old arrived in Nepal on Tuesday ahead of the team's opening match against the Sudurpaschim Royals. This signing brings the total number of Sri Lankan players in the Pokhara camp to three, joining Dhananjaya Lakshan and Chamika Karunaratne. The Avengers have also recruited three Bangladeshi all-rounders—Shakib Al Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, and Mahedi Hasan—as part of a broader effort to improve their standing after missing the playoffs in previous seasons. The team has also appointed former Sri Lankan spinner Ajantha Mendis as head coach.
In another development, the Sudurpaschim Royals have signed Sri Lankan all-rounder Tharindu Rathnayake. Both Onlinekhabar and Nagarik News reported that the 30-year-old is noted for his unique ability to bowl both off-spin and left-arm spin. Rathnayake has represented Sri Lanka in four T20 Internationals, claiming six wickets and scoring 77 runs. Across his domestic and other T20 career appearances, he has taken 98 wickets and accumulated 638 runs. His arrival is expected to provide the Royals with versatile bowling options as the NPL season progresses.