Former Australia opener David Warner is set to add another major chapter to his franchise cricket career after joining the Kathmandu Gorkhas for the Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season 3. The Australian batting star’s arrival is expected to generate considerable excitement among Nepalese cricket fans and add international experience to the upcoming tournament.
The Kathmandu-based franchise confirmed Warner’s signing on September 15, 2026, putting an end to the speculation surrounding its marquee overseas player. Warner also shared a video message expressing his excitement about travelling to Nepal, joining the Gorkhas and experiencing the country’s passionate cricket culture.
At 39, the explosive left-hander remains one of the most recognisable names in T20 cricket and brings years of experience from some of the world’s leading franchise competitions.
In his message to the franchise and its supporters, Warner said he was excited about joining the Kathmandu Gorkhas. He also ended his message with “Ayo Gorkhali!”, embracing the identity of his new team and showing his enthusiasm for the experience that awaits him in Nepal.
The Gorkhas had built anticipation around their overseas signing before the official announcement. The franchise released a series of clues, including references to World Cup victories and Warner’s famous jersey number 31. The clues eventually led fans to the Australian opener.
David Warner’s impressive T20 cricket career
Warner’s arrival is significant because of the wealth of experience he brings to the NPL. He retired from international cricket in 2024 after a decorated career spanning all three formats.
The former Australia opener played 112 Tests, 161 ODIs and 110 T20Is, accumulating 18,995 international runs and 49 centuries. He was a key member of Australia’s successful teams across formats and developed a reputation for combining aggressive strokeplay with consistency at the top of the order.
His franchise career has been equally extensive. Warner has played in competitions including the Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), The Hundred, Major League Cricket (MLC), Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
His IPL career remains particularly memorable. Warner won the Orange Cap in 2015, 2017 and 2019, finishing as the tournament’s leading run-scorer on three occasions. He also captained Sunrisers Hyderabad to their maiden IPL title in 2016.
With more than 14,000 runs in T20 cricket, Warner has established himself as one of the most prolific batters in the format. His experience of playing in different conditions and leagues could prove valuable for the Kathmandu Gorkhas during NPL Season 3.
Also READ: Steve Smith opens up on his future as Australia prepare for demanding Test schedule
NPL Season 3 set for October start
The Nepal Premier League 2026 is scheduled to run from October 26 to November 21, with eight franchises competing for the title.
Warner’s signing gives the tournament another high-profile overseas attraction. The upcoming season is also expected to feature several other internationally recognised cricketers, including Shakib Al Hasan, Jimmy Neesham and Sikandar Raza.
Also WATCH: Kushal Bhurtel hits 6 sixes in an over during Nepal vs China clash