Kathmandu, July 29 -- The date for the third season of the Nepal Premier League is still under wraps, but the franchises are already operating at full throttle. With early foreign signings rolling in, the teams are sending a clear message: season three is aiming for a whole new level.

The first season of the Festival of Himalayas was itself a bang. Biratnagar Kings brought Martin Guptill; Ravi Bopara and Sohail Tanvir played for Chitwan Rhinos; James Neesham became the fan favourite as he helped Janakpur Bolts win the inaugural edition; Lumbini Lions had Ben Cutting and Karnali Yaks had Shikhar Dhawan for a few matches; and Pokhara Avengers had Raymon Reifer. These players excited thousands of fans who packed the TU International Cricket...