Pokhara Avengers is a professional T20 cricket franchise representing Pokhara, Nepal’s iconic tourist city, in the Nepal T20 League (NepalT20) — the country’s official franchise-based T20 cricket tournament sanctioned by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). Launched in 2022, Pokhara Avengers quickly gained attention for their vibrant team culture, aggressive cricket, and connection to one of Nepal’s most beloved cities.

Overview

• Full Team Name: Pokhara Avengers

• Founded: 2022

• League: Nepal T20 League (NepalT20)

• City: Pokhara, Gandaki Province, Nepal

• Home Ground: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur

• Team Colors: Blue and Red

• Franchise Owner: Pokhara Premier Sports Pvt. Ltd.

• Head Coach: Pubudu Dassanayake (former Nepal national team coach)

• Captain (2022–23): Sharafuddin Ashraf (Afghanistan)

Participation in Nepal T20 League

Pokhara Avengers made their debut in the inaugural season of the Nepal T20 League in 2022–23.

 Season Highlights

• Solid middle-order performances throughout the tournament

• International leadership under Afghan all-rounder Sharafuddin Ashraf

• Notable wins over more experienced teams like Biratnagar Super Kings

• Finished just outside the playoffs, but showcased strong potential

Key Players

 Sharafuddin Ashraf (Captain)

• Afghan international known for his left-arm spin and leadership

• Instrumental in stabilizing the team’s middle overs

 Upul Tharanga (Sri Lanka)

• Former Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman

• Brought international experience and class to the top order

 Aarif Sheikh

• Dependable Nepali middle-order batsman

• Known for his cool temperament and ability to anchor innings

 Pratis GC

• Promising left-arm pacer and emerging young bowler from Nepal’s domestic scene

Coaching and Management

• Head Coach: Pubudu Dassanayake — former coach of both Nepal and Canada, known for developing emerging teams

• Support staff includes analysts and trainers experienced in T20 franchise environments

• Strong emphasis on youth development, fitness, and data-driven strategy

Brand Identity and Fan Culture

The “Avengers” branding reflects strength, unity, and resilience — qualities linked to both the city of Pokhara and the globally recognized “Avengers” pop culture phenomenon.

Fan Engagement

• Backed by Pokhara’s enthusiastic sports fans and tourism-influenced youth culture

• Strong social media presence with regular updates, player features, and contests

• Targeting urban fans, students, and the adventure-sport-loving demographic

Community Connection

Although the Nepal T20 League is currently hosted in Kathmandu, Pokhara Avengers aim to:

• Host matches in Pokhara in future seasons (at Pokhara Rangashala Stadium)

• Develop a youth cricket academy in Gandaki Province

• Promote cricket as a viable career path in Western Nepal

Challenges

• Need to establish long-term squad cohesion

• Improve consistency in batting and death bowling

• Strengthen local player pipeline and infrastructure in Pokhara

Trivia

• Pokhara Avengers is one of the few franchises with both South Asian and international stars from the very first season.

• The team is inspired by the global Avengers brand, blending sports with entertainment appeal.

• Their coach, Pubudu Dassanayake, helped Nepal achieve ODI status in 2018, adding experience and credibility to the franchise.