The Nepal Weekly 
December 3, 2024
In a major boost to Nepali cricket, Lumbini Lions Club officially announced Ncell as its main sponsor for the Nepal Premier League (NPL) during a grand event held at the Hilton on December 1, 2024. This strategic collaboration between one of Nepal’s leading cricket teams and the country’s foremost private telecommunications service provider has been widely hailed as a game-changer for the sport, bringing renewed excitement and a promise of development to the league.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including national icon and Lumbini Lions brand ambassador Rajesh Hamal, Lumbini Lions team captain Rohit Poudel, British Cricketer, Yukar Tom Murs, and other international players. The unveiling of the team’s new jerseys for the NPL by Lumbini Lions President Ishwar G.C. added to the celebratory mood, further heightening anticipation for the league.
During the event, Ishwar G.C., the President of Lumbini Lions, expressed the view that this partnership would increase enthusiasm of the cricket players and help promote Nepalese cricket in future. “We are honored to collaborate with Ncell, Nepal’s leading private telecommunications service provider. This partnership will make a meaningful contribution to the development of Nepali cricket. The support of a globally recognized brand like Ncell will empower Nepali talent and elevate cricket in Nepal to new heights,” he said.
The partnership reflects Ncell’s commitment to fostering sports and youth development in Nepal. Speaking at the event, Ncell’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Jabur Kayumov said “With our theme ‘We are for you,’ we are excited to partner with Lumbini Lions to take Nepali cricket to new heights.” “This collaboration not only strengthens sports development but also promotes youth empowerment and social integration,” he remarked.
In addition to supporting cricket, Ncell has tied the league to a meaningful social initiative. For every four hit during the tournament, the Ncell Foundation will provide four educational kits to students in rural and remote areas. This program exemplifies the company’s dedication to blending sports with social impact, ensuring that cricket contributes to broader societal benefits.
The Nepal Premier League, now one of the most popular cricket tournaments in the country, features eight teams competing fiercely for the championship title. The league began on Mangsir 17 at the Tribhuvan University International Ground in Kirtipur and will continue until Paush 6. For the Lumbini Lions, this season marks their debut in the NPL, and the team is determined to make a lasting impression on the tournament.
Rajesh Hamal, brand ambassador of the Lumbini Lions, also shared his optimism for the team and the partnership. “This collaboration between Lumbini Lions and Ncell is not just about cricket. It’s about inspiring young talent, fostering community spirit, and showcasing the potential of Nepali sports on a larger platform,” he remarked. The Ncell sponsorship comes at a crucial time for Lumbini Lions, which aims to leverage this partnership to strengthen their performance and promote cricket development in the region. With Ncell’s backing, the team plans to create new opportunities for players, improve training facilities, and build stronger engagement with fans.
The partnership also aligns with the growing popularity of the NPL, which has become a key event in Nepal’s sports calendar. With increasing participation and fan engagement, the league continues to evolve as a platform for nurturing local talent and showcasing Nepal’s cricketing potential on a national and international stage.
As Lumbini Lions step into the NPL arena with the support of Ncell, the collaboration promises not only to elevate the team’s prospects but also to inspire the next generation of cricketers and strengthen the overall cricketing ecosystem in Nepal. This landmark partnership marks a new chapter in Nepali cricket, combining sportsmanship, social responsibility, and corporate collaboration to achieve shared goals of development and excellence.
