Kathmandu. An unprecedented wave of awards and financial support has come in the country after the Nepali men’s cricket team qualified for the World Cup. This huge financial support from the government, national and corporate sector testifies to the growing professional momentum of Nepali cricket.
In recognition of the historic success of the national team, the government of Nepal has announced to provide a total of Rs 20.4 million to the members and coaches of the national team. Each player will be awarded with Rs 13 lakh.
The National Sports Council (NSC) has also decided to provide an additional Rs 19.05 million to each player. Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has announced Rs 5 million cash prize to the cricket team for the World Cup Qualifiers.
After the victory of the Nepali team, a big prize money has been announced from the private sector. This has set a new example of corporate partnerships.
Yeti Brewery has announced to give a total of Rs 10.2 million to the players and cans for being selected. Arna Beer had also pledged Rs 1 crore to the team.
Wai Wai (CG) has provided attractive incentives based on performance. This includes Rs 1,000 per run, Rs 8,000 for each four, Rs 12,000 for sixes, Rs 15,000 for wickets and Rs 150,000 for each win. In addition, Wai Wai has announced a cash prize of Rs 3 million if the team reaches the Super 8 stage.
Apart from this, CAN has signed a sponsorship agreement with Singa Steel Pvt. Ltd. of Singapore for 3 years which includes kits and gears.
The professionalism of domestic cricket is also growing rapidly. The financial performance of the first season of Nepal Premier League was very encouraging.
The total income of NPL was more than Rs 27.69 crore. The company posted a net profit of Rs 7.53 crore.
Siddhartha Bank has invested Rs 20 crore as the title sponsor of NPL. The winner of the tournament will get Rs 1 crore while the runner-up will get Rs 51 lakh.
CAN expects to earn Rs 617 million for 2025. This reflects the union’s growing budget and ambitious plans.
The men’s World Cup qualifier has raised unprecedented funding from the government, corporate companies and international sponsors. The profitability of the NPL and the growing budget of CAN show that the financial position of domestic cricket is strong. This huge financial investment is sure to give further impetus to grassroots cricket and talent development in Nepal.
