Two matches scheduled in Kirtipur as NPL 2025 enters Day 2; defending champions Janakpur Bolts opened campaign with a loss.
KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 17
Two matches are scheduled today in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025, the franchise-based Twenty20 cricket tournament underway in Kirtipur.
Chitwan Rhinos will take on Karnali Yaks in the first match at 11:45 am, while Biratnagar Kings face Pokhara Avengers in the afternoon fixture. Kushal Malla leads Chitwan and Sompal Kami captains Karnali. Likewise, Sandeep Lamichhane captains Biratnagar and Kushal Bhurtel leads Pokhara.
On Monday, defending champions Janakpur Bolts began their campaign with a five-wicket defeat to Kathmandu Gorkhas in the opening match. Kathmandu chased down the 131-run target with two overs remaining, powered by a 70-run opening stand between Aakash Tripathi (39 off 45) and Ben Charlesworth (46 off 23).
Aasif Sheikh top-scored for Janakpur with 54 off 41 balls, while Milind Kumar starred with the ball for Kathmandu, taking 3 for 15.
The tournament, organised by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), will run until December 13, featuring 32 matches including playoffs and the final. Eight franchises, Janakpur Bolts, Sudurpaschim Royals, Karnali Yaks, Pokhara Avengers, Biratnagar Kings, Chitwan Rhinos, Kathmandu Gorkhas and Lumbini Lions, are competing. All matches are being held at the TU International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.
CAN has set prize money of Rs 11 million for the champions, Rs 5.1 million for the runners-up, Rs 2.5 million for third place and Rs 1.5 million for the fourth-placed team.
