Jhapa FC, one of the three new teams of the franchise-based Nepal Super League football tournament, have recruited winger Anjan Bista as their marquee player on Sunday.

Jhapa FC, nicknamed the Elephants, signed the agreement with the national team winger to become the first Super League side to formally unveil a player.

According to the club, they have recruited him for a record price for any marquee player. They, however, did not reveal the amount. “Anjan is the best player in Nepali football,” club general secretary Sujan Gautam said. “We are very excited to sign him.” Gautam also said that the club will prioritise Jhapa-based players in the NSL auction.

“I have found the club very positive. I feel there is some special environment here (Jhapa FC). We will build the team together. I will make my best contributions to the club,” said Bista, who also captains the Martyrs Memorial ‘A’ Division League team Manang Marshyangdi Club (MMC). MMC finished fifth in the league that concluded on Saturday.

Jhapa also said that they would unveil their coach very soon.

Sporting Ilam De Mechi and Birgunj United FC are the other two teams to get entry to this season’s NSL. The first edition had only seven teams.

The second edition of the NSL is set to take place from April 25 to May 15, with first rounds taking place in Pokhara and second rounds in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu Rayzrs are the defending champions.

‘A’ Division players asked not to join other clubs without permission

KATHMANDU: Eight clubs of the Martyrs Memorial ‘A’ Division League on Sunday asked their players not to join other clubs or play other tournaments without their permission.

“We are preparing to participate in various prestigious football tournaments following the completion of the ‘A’ Division League and we request the players registered in the country’s top tier league not to get associated with other tournaments and clubs without our permission and not to renew their contract with other clubs,” the clubs said in a joint press release.

The clubs also drew the attention of all stakeholders saying “it is necessary to ensure the ‘A’ Division clubs participate in the country's other prestigious tournaments that have remained significant in the development of football in the country.”

The notice came hours after Manang Marshyangdi Club (MMC) captain and winger Anjan Bista joined Nepal Super League’s new side Jhapa FC, a day after the first division league concluded.

The notice was issued by league champions Machhindra Club, New Road Team, Satdobato Youth Club, MMC, Three Star Club, Sankata Club, Jawalakhel Youth Club and Friends Club.