Kathmandu Gorkhas have named Monty Desai as their head coach for the second edition of the Nepal Premier League. Owned by Kathmandu Sports Development Venture, the franchise, earlier named ‘Kathmandu Gurkhas’, announced the appointment through their social media handles on Thursday.

Desai coached Nepal’s national team for two years from February 2023, during which Nepal won 11 of 12 matches in CWC League 2 to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup Global Qualifier. It was also under Desai that Nepal played their first Asia Cup and returned to the T20 World Cup after a decade.

Kathmandu Gorkhas’ CEO Suraj Singh Thakuri said they aim to keep the title in Kathmandu in the upcoming season.

“On Guru Purnima, Kathmandu Gorkhas have found their guru in the form of Monty Desai,” Thakuri said. “He understands Nepali players, their mindset, and the emotions of fans.”

Desai, who left Nepal in February, will return after nine months.

Desai called his return not just an opportunity but a continuation of a journey he deeply cherishes.

“Nepal has always felt like home,” he said. “Its people, its spirit, and its cricket have shaped me in many ways.”