NPL: Karnali Yaks' new head coach is Gyanendra Malla

Himalayan Builders & Engineers' Nepali Premier League franchise Karnali Yaks has hired former national team skipper Gyanendra Malla as their head coach and Cricket Director. The hiring happened at a press meet in Kathmandu on Monday. Currently coaching Nepal's 'A' squad, Malla will take over as head coach of Karnali Yaks for the upcoming NPL season.

Himalayan Builders previously bought Karnali Yaks for NPR 1,11,70,000 and recruited national all-rounder Sompal Kami as their marquee player.

Gyanendra Malla, who international retired in 2023 after playing for 15 years, played 45 T20Is and scored 883 runs with a century against Bhutan in 2019.

Team proprietor Jhanak Dutta Khanal was excited to declare that Malla's experience will witness the team grow. He also mentioned that he had been motivated by the vision of the team and is ready to contribute his share towards their success.

Likewise, in the same function, Grihendra Ghimire was made the team director. He promised to serve both Karnali Yaks and cricket growth in Nepal.

The team also introduced its official logo, symbolizing the strength and spirit of the Karnali area. Team proprietor Khanal said Yaks represent the determination of people of Karnali and their dreams to inspire the youth and popularize cricket in the area.

The tournament was attended by a series of dignitaries, such as Parliament Members Gyanendra Shahi, Binita Kathayat, Manish Jha, Sobita Gautam, and Paras Khadka, Secretary, Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). NPL tournament will be conducted from November 30 to December 21, 2024.