Kathmandu: Altogether 512 Nepali players have registered for the draft of Nepal Kabaddi League (NKL) season 2, according to organisers Astronix Management.

Amit Kumar Begani, the chief of Astronix Management, informed on Monday that they received 512 domestic registrations.

Among the registered players, Bagmati Province has the highest number with 155 players followed by 103 from Sudurpaschim, 98 from Lumbini, 70 from Madhesh, 35 from Koshi, 27 from Karnali and 24 from Gandaki.

In the inaugural season held last year, six city-based teams selected 84 players through the draft of which 66 were Nepali.

“The interest from foreign players has also increased significantly. Players from many countries have expressed their desire to participate in the NKL. We have plans to include around 40 to 50 foreign players for the second edition and they will be high quality,” Begani added.

In the first season, 18 players from four countries—Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Kenya—participated in the league.

The NKL made history as the first franchise-based competition in Nepal’s kabaddi history. The first edition was held from January 17 to 31 last year.

The six franchise teams represented different cities including Biratnagar Bandits, Janakpur Knights, Kathmandu Mavericks, Pokhara Lakers, Butwal’s Himalayan Raiders and Dhangadhi Wildcats.

Janakpur Knights were crowned the champions defeating Kathmandu Mavericks in the inaugural NKL.

The two captains of the first edition—Ghanshyam Magar of Kathmandu and Ganesh Parki of Himalayan Raiders—are currently playing in India’s Pro Kabaddi League Season 12.