Kathmandu Gorkhas sign former Australian opener David Warner

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Gorkhas have signed former Australian opener David Warner for the 2026 season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).

The signing makes Warner one of the biggest names in world cricket to join the franchise-based T20 league.

The Kathmandu-based franchise, who had been teasing the signing of a big star on social media for several days to build anticipation among cricket fans, confirmed Warner’s signing on Monday.

“David Warner, welcome to the Valley,” Kathmandu Gorkhas said in a social media post. “Two-time ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup champion, T20 World Cup champion and Player of the Tournament, World Test Championship winner, triple centurion, and the only player to win three IPL Orange Caps … is now coming to our Valley.”

Warner, one of the most explosive opening batters of his generation, said he was excited to visit Nepal and join the Kathmandu Gorkhas squad.

“I know it has been an incredibly difficult time for so many, and I hope that the NPL could bring some joy and give people something to come together,” Warner said in a video message posted by the franchise. “I have heard so much about the passion and the fans. I can’t wait to experience it all. I can’t wait to meet you and get out there and be with my team.”

Warner’s signing adds another major international name to the NPL, which has previously featured global stars including India’s Shikhar Dhawan, South Africa’s Faf du Plessis, New Zealand’s Martin Guptill, Pakistan’s Sohail Tanvir and James Neesham of New Zealand. Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan has also joined Pokhara Avengers for the upcoming season.

Warner won the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups with Australia and was part of the country’s T20 World Cup-winning side in 2021. He also won the Player of the Tournament award at the 2021 T20 World Cup and was a key figure in Australia’s World Test Championship triumph.

The NPL features eight franchises: Biratnagar Kings, Janakpur Bolts, Kathmandu Gorkhas, Pokhara Avengers, Chitwan Rhinos, Lumbini Lions, Karnali Yaks and Sudurpashchim Royals.

The 2026 season of the Nepal Premier League is scheduled to begin on October 26.