Darwin, Australia — The Nepal National Cricket Team will return to Darwin from 20 to 30 August 2026, with Nepal becoming the first team officially confirmed for the 2026 Study NT Top End T20 Series.
The announcement was made during the annual Northern Territory Nepal Festival, where members of Darwin's Nepalese community gathered alongside Northern Territory Government ministers, local council representatives and community leaders to celebrate Nepalese culture, food and music.
In a special moment for the community, Paras Khadka, Secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), announced that the Nepal national team—popularly known as the Nepal Rhinos—would once again compete in Australia's premier winter T20 tournament.
Nepal made history in 2025 by becoming the first Nepal national cricket team to play on Australian soil as part of the Top End T20 Series. The tournament attracted thousands of passionate Nepalese supporters from across Australia, turning Darwin into a sea of red and blue and generating significant international attention.
With one of Australia's fastest-growing Nepalese communities, Nepal's return is expected to once again draw large crowds to the Northern Territory, giving supporters another opportunity to watch the national team compete live against Big Bash franchises and international touring sides.
During the tournament, Nepal is expected to play at least six matches, providing valuable preparation ahead of major international competitions while allowing players to gain experience against high-quality opposition.
Speaking at the announcement, Paras Khadka said last year's tournament had been an outstanding success for Nepal Cricket.
"Last year's participation in the Top End Series was a tremendous success for Nepal Cricket. The tournament attracted an outstanding turnout in Darwin, where the Nepalese community showed incredible support in large numbers.
"The quality of cricket on display was exceptional, and the exposure Nepal Cricket received proved invaluable in the lead-up to the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers.
"We are excited to be returning to the Top End Series and look forward to competing against Big Bash teams and touring squads from Test-playing nations. The tournament provides another fantastic platform for our players to gain valuable experience and showcase their talent on the international stage."
Northern Territory Cricket CEO Gavin Dovey said Nepal's return was a major boost for both the tournament and the Territory.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome the Nepal National Cricket Team back to Darwin for the 2026 Study NT Top End T20 Series.
"Nepal's first visit brought a special energy to the tournament, both on the field and in the stands. We know the Territory's Nepalese community will once again get right behind the team.
"Last year's tournament firmly placed the Northern Territory on the global cricket map, with Nepal's passionate supporters from around the world turning their attention to Darwin. Their return highlights the growing international significance of Australian winter cricket."
The Study NT Top End T20 Series has become one of Australia's leading winter cricket competitions, providing Big Bash clubs, state teams and international sides with the opportunity to play high-quality T20 cricket during Australia's off-season.
For Nepalese Australians, Nepal's return to Darwin is expected to be more than just a cricket tournament—it will be another celebration of national pride, bringing together thousands of supporters from across the country to cheer on the national team.
