Nepal Cricket Association (CAN) Secretary Paras Khadka has emphasized the need for well-equipped stadiums to ensure the future of cricket. Speaking at the final day of the 12th Nepal Literature Festival in Pokhara on Sunday, during the session “Free Hit: Beyond NPL,” he highlighted the necessity of modern cricket facilities for the future of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) while in conversation with journalist Sabina Karki.
He asserted that with a well-developed cricket stadium, cricket in Nepal would not have to rely on government support. “If we have a well-equipped cricket stadium, we can generate revenue through ticket sales, maybe 500, 1,000, 1,500, or even 2,000 tickets,” he said. “If that happens, we will be in a position to run cricket independently without relying on the government.”
He also mentioned that the tender process for installing floodlights at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur has been completed. He added that the Ministry has assured them that the second edition of the NPL will be played under floodlights.
Khadka, a former captain of the Nepal national men’s team, claimed that the top 10-12 national team players now earn around 4-5 million NPR annually.
He acknowledged the financial progress of both players and the cricket association. “When I started cricket, the association provided just 25 rupees as an allowance. Later, our generation earned $25 per international match,” he recalled. “With an annual income of $750, we had to buy bats, clothes, support our families, and even treat friends. From that structure, cricket has now reached a much stronger financial position for both players and the association.”
