Cricket fans in Nepal are eagerly awaiting the return of the Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League for its thrilling 2025 season. The Cricket Association of Nepal organizes this league, which has grown to be the largest cricket festival in Nepal. This event brings together Nepali cricketers and international stars like Faf du Plessis Jason Roy Chris Lynn and more.
The 2025 cricket season will begin on 17 November 2025 with a massive opening match between the champions Janakpur Bolts against their fierce rivals, the Kathmandu Gurkhas. This match will be filled with energy, big bowling and fast hits.
This blog will cover the opening match, teams, schedule, stars, rivalries and why NPL is so important to Nepal cricket.
What is the Nepal Premier League?
The Nepal Premier League (NPL) is Nepal’s largest men’s T20 Cricket competition. The competition is contested by eight franchises each representing a large city or province. These teams combine Nepal’s young rising stars with experienced players from abroad, creating an exciting cricket experience for fans of any age.
Eight Teams in NPL by 2025
- Biratnagar Kings
- Chitwan Rhinos
- Janakpur Bolts
- Karnali Yaks
- Kathmandu Gurkhas
- Pokhara Avengers
- Sudurpaschim Royals
- Lumbini Lions
The matches will take place at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, in Kirtipur. This ground now has floodlights to make it brighter during daytime and nighttime games.
NPL 2025 Tournament Dates
- League Matches: November 17 – December 7, 2025
- Playoffs: December 9, 10, 11
- Grand finale: 12th December 2025
There will be total 32 matches – 28 league matches and 4 playoff games
Opening Match: Janakpur Bolts vs Kathmandu Gurkhas
The first match is always a special one, but this year is even more so because the champions Janakpur Bolts are going to face the well-balanced and strong Kathmandu Gurkhas.
Janakpur Bolts
- Champions of the first NPL Season (2024)
- Strong batting lineup
- Good bowlers who can fast bowl
- Teamwork and high confidence
Kathmandu Gurkhas
- Known for their powerful hits
- Spinners are skilled spinners
- New signings on the international scene
- The team is hungry to win the first NPL title
Star Players Everyone Is Watching
This year’s league features many notable players, including
International Players
- Faf du Plessis– world-class Captain and Opening Batter
- Jason Roy – explosive English opener
- Chris Lynn is known for his massive sixes
- Priyank Panchal – experienced Indian batter (Karnali Yaks)
Nepal Stars
- Gulshan Jha
- Karan KC
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Sompal Kami
- Rohit Paudel
NPL 2025 will be a thrilling season thanks to these stars.
Match preview: What to expect in the opening match
The match between Janakpur Bolts vs Kathmandu Gurkhas is a test of nerves and skill.
Key Players to Watch
For Janakpur Bolts:
- Aarav Khadka – opening batter
- Suraj A. Adhikari Middle-order Anchor
- Kamal Saud – fast bowler
- Roshan Paudel – all-rounder
For Kathmandu Gurkhas:
- Binod Rawal – stylish opener
- Prabesh KC – big hitter
- Kritan Malla – captain & all-rounder
- Sanjeev Lamichhane – spin specialist
The ground: TU Cricket Stadium in Kirtipur
All NPL matches are to be played on one ground — Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground. The new floodlights will allow fans to enjoy the daytime and nighttime thrills.
The stadium is famous for:
- Good batting surface
- Middle Overs that Spin Well
- Big crowd energy
- Enjoy the sunset from your evening match
The atmosphere at every match will be unforgettable.
NPL 2025 Schedule Highlights
- Double-header matches on certain days
- Rivalry matches such as:
- Sudurpaschim Royals vs Janakpur Bolts
- Pokhara Avengers vs Biratnagar Kings
- Lumbini vs Chitwan Rhinos
- Top 4 teams qualify for playoffs
Playoff Format
- Qualifier 2: Winner goes to the Final – December 9,
- Eliminator: 3rd vs 4th – December 10
- Qualifier 2. Loser of Q1 vs. Winner Eliminator on December 11,
- Grand finale: Saturday, December 13,
Broadcasting & How to watch
The broadcasting rights for 2025 have been awarded to:
- Star Sports
- Kantipur MAX
- Ncell App (paid streaming)
- Action Sports HD (limited access)
You can watch all the games live in Nepal as well as around the world.
Why NPL 2025 is Important for Nepal Cricket
The NPL 2025 isn’t simply a cricket competition but represents a big leap forward in Nepal’s sporting saga. This league is a window for the world to see Nepal which in turn helps the local talent to flourish as they get to play alongside the top, class international players. Moreover, it is instrumental in the cricket revolution of the grassroots where youngsters take the stage more and get more access to the game. With more substantial investments flowing into the sport, Nepal is getting better stadiums, improved facilities, and an upgraded cricket infrastructure. In essence, the NPL 2025 is doing a lot of work in the background to help Nepal craft a strong cricket identity and tell the world that Nepal is coming up as a formidable force of international cricket.
Who can win the opening match?
Both teams are very strong but let’s make a simple guess.
Janakpur Bolts – Chances of winning: Very high
Reasons:
- Champions defending their titles
- Strong batting lineup
- Fast bowling and good spin
- Team chemistry has already been proven
Kathmandu Gurkhas – Chances of winning: Good
Reasons:
- New foreign signings
- Strong Top Order
- Good bowlers
- Motivated to defeat the champions
Conclusion
The Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting cricket seasons Nepal has ever witnessed. With world-class international stars, rising Nepali talents, upgraded stadium facilities, and electrifying rivalries, this year’s league promises unforgettable moments for every cricket fan. The opening clash between Janakpur Bolts and Kathmandu Gurkhas will set the tone for a month filled with big hits, tight spells, and high-pressure finishes.
As the league continues to grow, NPL is not just bringing entertainment, it is strengthening Nepal’s cricket culture, giving young players a bigger platform, and placing Nepal firmly on the global cricket map. Whether you support the champions Janakpur Bolts, the ambitious Kathmandu Gurkhas, or any of the other six franchises, one thing is certain: NPL 2025 will be a celebration of passion, talent, and the future of Nepali cricket.
Learn More
FAQs
1. What is the Nepal Premier League (NPL)?
The Nepal Premier League (NPL) is Nepal’s biggest men’s T20 cricket tournament featuring eight professional franchises. It brings together top Nepali cricketers and world-class international stars, making it the country’s most exciting cricket festival.
2. When does the NPL 2025 season start?
NPL 2025 will officially begin on 17 November 2025 with the opening match between Janakpur Bolts and Kathmandu Gurkhas.
3.Who is likely to win the opening match of NPL 2025?
Janakpur Bolts are considered strong favorites due to their championship experience and solid squad. However, Kathmandu Gurkhas have new international signings and a powerful top order, making the contest exciting and unpredictable.
4.Where can I watch NPL 2025 live?
The official broadcasting partners are:
- Star Sports
- Kantipur MAX
- Ncell App (paid streaming)
- Action Sports HD
5. What are the NPL 2025 playoff dates?
The playoffs will be held on:
- December 9, 10, and 11,
with the Grand Finale on December 13, 2025
