Shikhar Dhawan's IPL 2025 exclusion despite Nepal Premier League comeback: What you should know

New Delhi: Cricket's escalating popularity was on full display as the much-awaited Nepal Premier League (NPL) kicked off on Saturday (November 30) in Kirtipur, Kathmandu. The tournament received a major boost with the participation of Indian cricket legend, Shikhar Dhawan, who is donning the jersey of the Karnali Yaks.

Earlier this year, Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement, concluding an illustrious career in which he represented India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is. As the second-highest run-scorer in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, Dhawan’s final professional outing was during the 2024 IPL season.

Dhawan began the 2024 IPL season as captain of the Punjab Kings (PBKS), leading the team in their first five matches before an injury ruled him out for the remainder of the tournament.

Although Shikhar Dhawan is making a comeback to cricket through the Nepal Premier League after his retirement, he is no longer eligible to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL), domestic cricket in India, or for the national team.

This restriction stems from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rules, which prohibit Indian players from participating in overseas leagues. According to the policy, any player who competes in a T20 league outside the IPL or Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) becomes ineligible to represent India or participate in any BCCI-organized competitions. Consequently, players must retire from Indian cricket to play in foreign leagues.

In January 2025, Dinesh Karthik will play for the Paarl Royals in the SA 20, having retired from Indian cricket earlier this year. Similarly, former cricketers Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan, and Ambati Rayudu participated in the ILT20 after announcing their retirements.