PM Oli honours NPL champion Janakpur Bolts

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Dec. 23: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has congratulated and honoured Janakpur Bolts, the winners of the first edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).

At a programme held on Sunday at the Prime Minister’s official residence, Baluwatar, PM Oli extended his congratulations to the team’s captain, players, Nepal Cricket Association, and match organisers for their outstanding performance in elevating the standard of Nepali cricket.

On Saturday, Janakpur Bolts defeated Sudurpaschim Royals in a match held at the Kirtipur Cricket Ground. 

Extending his best wishes for future successes, Prime Minister Oli encouraged the players to maintain their confidence, skills, and enthusiasm, demonstrating that world-renowned batsmen can also emerge from Nepal.

“This is a victory for all of us. It is a victory for Nepal and for the NPL. Your exceptional abilities were evident in this game. Sudurpaschim, who secured the second position, were not weak either. The players of Janakpur Bolts, who achieved victory by overcoming tough challenges, is worthy of praise,” the Prime Minister said. 

“You all are heroes, leaders, and great champions. I admire your efforts. The development of sports also reflects the country’s progress, and I wish you even greater achievements in the days to come.”

He mentioned that after assuming office as Prime Minister, one of his initial decisions was to upgrade the Kirtipur Cricket Ground, and tender for its construction had already been called.

He assured continuous efforts from the government and his side for the development of the sports sector in Nepal.

After hearing complaints from the Cricket Association and match organisers about the tedious processes faced by foreign players coming to Nepal and bringing foreign investment or support to Nepal's sports sector, Prime Minister Oli assured that such situations should not occur and that the government would provide the necessary facilitation.

Chairperson of the Association, Chatur Bahadur Chand, expressed gratitude to the government for prioritising cricket and requested the elimination of cumbersome procedures in granting labour permits to foreign players.

During the event, team captain Asif Sheikh shared his happiness, saying that receiving congratulations and honour from the Prime Minister was a moment of pride for them.