KIRTIPUR, October 29, 2026: Janakpur Bolts have confirmed that Pakistani cricketers Iftikhar Ahmed and Hunain Shah are returning to Pakistan without featuring in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2026 after failing to secure the required clearance from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Janakpur Bolts CEO Niroj Khatiwada told Ratopati that the PCB had instructed both players not to participate in the tournament. According to Khatiwada, the players' agents had informed the franchise that a fee of USD 25,000 per player would be required to obtain clearance. However, the franchise said it had not received any direct communication from the PCB regarding the matter.
Khatiwada had earlier said the franchise had emailed the PCB and was waiting for a clear response. He later confirmed to MakaluKhabar that the team could not field the two players despite wanting to, adding that both were expected to return to Pakistan on October 29 or 30.
Pakistani Players Miss Janakpur's Opening Match
Iftikhar Ahmed and Hunain Shah had already arrived in Nepal and were present at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur for Janakpur Bolts' opening match against Karnali Yaks on Tuesday.
However, both remained on the bench as Janakpur went down by 19 runs. The franchise used its four overseas slots for Moeen Ali, Jimmy Neesham, Kusal Perera and captain Harmeet Singh.
Iftikhar had been signed to strengthen the middle order with his experience, while Hunain was expected to add depth to the pace attack. Their absence forced Janakpur to make an unexpected adjustment to its overseas-player plans.
Saif Hassan and Parvez Hossain Emon Join Janakpur Bolts
Janakpur Bolts had already completed the process of signing replacements and indicated that the new players would be announced shortly. Subsequent reports confirmed that Bangladesh cricketers Saif Hassan and Parvez Hossain Emon had arrived in Nepal to fill the vacant overseas slots.
The replacements provide Janakpur with fresh options as the team looks to recover from its opening-match defeat and build momentum in the tournament.
NOC Uncertainty Affects Pakistani Players in NPL
The situation reflects wider uncertainty surrounding Pakistani cricketers signed by NPL franchises, following reports that previously issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) had been put on hold.
The Cricket Association of Nepal has maintained that it cannot compel players to participate if their respective national cricket boards do not provide the necessary clearance.
Janakpur Bolts, the 2024 NPL champions who finished at the bottom of the table in 2025, will now have to adjust their squad plans as the 2026 season progresses. All matches are being played at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, with the final scheduled for November 21.