KATHMANDU, October 26: Janakpur Bolts have strengthened their batting lineup with the signing of experienced Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Perera for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).
The franchise confirmed the signing through its official Facebook page on October 26, the opening day of NPL Season 3. Perera's arrival adds another internationally experienced player to the Bolts' squad as they look to make a strong comeback after a disappointing previous season.
Announcing the signing, Janakpur Bolts highlighted Perera's fearless batting approach and his ability to perform in important moments. The left-handed batter is widely recognised for his aggressive style, particularly at the top of the order, where he can put opposition bowlers under pressure from the beginning.
Perera brings considerable international experience across all three formats. He has scored 1,177 runs in 22 Test matches, 3,237 runs in 116 One-Day Internationals and 2,335 runs in 95 T20 Internationals for Sri Lanka.
His experience also extends across several major franchise competitions. Having featured in seven different franchise leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL), the NPL will mark his eighth franchise league appearance.
The signing gives Janakpur another attacking batting option alongside an overseas group that already includes England all-rounder Moeen Ali, New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham and Pakistan batter Iftikhar Ahmed. Harmeet Singh is also part of the team's overseas contingent.
Perera's ability to contribute behind the stumps provides additional value, potentially giving the Bolts greater flexibility when finalising their playing combination.
The signing comes at an important time for Janakpur, who will be eager to rediscover the form that made them the champions of the inaugural NPL season in 2024. Their second-season campaign was disappointing, however, as they finished at the bottom of the table after managing just one victory.
With experienced international players now forming a significant part of their squad, the Bolts will be hoping to turn things around and return to playoff contention in Season 3.
Janakpur Bolts are scheduled to begin their NPL 2026 campaign against Karnali Yaks on October 27 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
Perera's arrival adds experience, aggression and another proven match-winner to the Janakpur lineup. If he can translate his international and franchise cricket form into consistent performances in Nepal, he could play a significant role in the Bolts' attempt to reclaim their position among the league's leading teams.