KATHMANDU, October 31: Karnali Yaks have added another major international name to their squad, confirming the signing of experienced South African batter David Miller for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).
The 37-year-old left-handed batter was announced as the franchise's sixth overseas signing on Friday, October 23. Widely regarded as one of the most dependable finishers in T20 cricket, Miller's arrival is expected to add considerable experience and firepower to Karnali's middle and lower order.
Karnali Yaks chairman Grihendra Ghimire said the signing was made in response to the expectations of the franchise's supporters, who have been looking forward to seeing more internationally recognised players represent the team.
Ghimire also recalled the excitement surrounding Karnali's Season 1 signing of Indian star Shikhar Dhawan, expressing confidence that the current group of overseas players would strengthen the team's title ambitions while helping promote Nepal through the NPL.
"Our focus is now on winning the title," Ghimire said.
Miller brings an impressive T20 career spanning international cricket and several major franchise leagues. He has scored 2,804 runs in 140 T20 Internationals for South Africa, including two centuries and nine half-centuries. Across all T20 competitions, his tally exceeds 12,400 runs.
His experience in the Indian Premier League (IPL) makes him an especially valuable addition. Miller has represented Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans, and was part of the Gujarat Titans squad that won the IPL title in 2022.
He is particularly known for his ability to accelerate in the final overs and deliver under pressure. His memorable 35-ball century against Bangladesh in 2017 remains one of the fastest hundreds in men's T20 International cricket, while his IPL performances have further established him as a proven match-winner.
For Karnali Yaks, Miller's signing comes as the franchise looks to build on its previous performances and mount another serious challenge for the title. The team reached Qualifier 2 in the inaugural season but finished sixth in Season 2.
Under captain Sompal Kami, Karnali have been assembling an experienced squad featuring several established international and domestic players. Nepal internationals Gulshan Jha and Nandan Yadav will also be important parts of the team's campaign.
Miller joins an overseas group that already includes Pakistan T20I captain Sahibzada Farhan, Pakistan all-rounder Hussain Talat, Bangladesh players Akbar Ali and Ariful Islam, and returning Scotland all-rounder Mark Watt.
Watt was one of Karnali's standout performers in the previous edition, scoring an unbeaten 114, the highest individual score in NPL history at the time. His return, combined with Farhan's attacking approach at the top and Talat's all-round contributions, gives Karnali several options across their batting order.
Miller's experience adds another dimension to the combination, particularly in the closing stages of an innings, where his power-hitting and ability to handle pressure could prove decisive.
With six overseas players now confirmed, Karnali Yaks appear determined to strengthen their squad and improve their chances of competing for the NPL Season 3 title. The franchise will now look to translate its impressive recruitment into consistent performances on the field.