Nepal Premier League 2024: Fixtures, Schedule, and Teams Overview
The inaugural edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) promises thrilling cricket action, bringing together top domestic players and international stars. Organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), the NPL runs from November 30 to December 21, 2024, offering an exciting blend of competition and entertainment. Here's a detailed breakdown of the tournament, including fixtures, team line-ups, and playoff details. Before NPL 2024, Global Super League T20 2024 staring from November 26.
Tournament Structure
The NPL features eight teams competing in a single round-robin league, ensuring every team faces all others once. The top four teams advance to the playoffs:
- Qualifier 1: 1st place vs. 2nd place (Winner advances to final).
- Eliminator: 3rd place vs. 4th place (Winner plays in Qualifier 2).
- Qualifier 2: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs. Winner of Eliminator.
- Final: December 21 at TU Cricket Ground.
NPL Key Fixtures
- Opening Match: Biratnagar Kings vs. Janakpur Bolts (November 30).
- Notable Games:
- Kathmandu Gurkhas vs. Chitwan Rhinos (December 2).
- Sudurpaschim Royals vs. Biratnagar Kings (December 3).
- Lumbini Lions vs. Kings (December 4).
- Playoff Dates: December 18-19.
NPL Full Fixtures
Venues and Broadcast Details for Nepal Premier League 2024
The Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 will take place across multiple iconic cricketing venues in Nepal, with the Tribhuvan University (TU) Cricket Ground in Kirtipur serving as the primary host.
Known for its picturesque backdrop and historical significance in Nepalese cricket, this ground will host key matches, including the opener between Biratnagar Kings and Janakpur Bolts on November 30 and the final on December 21. Other venues, such as the Pokhara Cricket Ground and Mulpani Cricket Ground, may also host league-stage matches, promoting cricket development in different regions of Nepal.
Broadcast Details
The tournament will be broadcast live on the Star Sports channel, ensuring maximum reach for cricket enthusiasts across South Asia. Viewers can also expect live streaming on popular digital platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, allowing fans from around the world to follow the matches online. The combination of television and digital platforms will cater to a wide audience, elevating the NPL’s status as a premier T20 event.
In addition, the organizers have hinted at YouTube coverage for select matches, particularly for audiences in countries without access to Star Sports. Official updates regarding regional broadcasters and additional platforms are expected as the tournament approaches.
With top-quality production and comprehensive coverage, NPL 2024 is positioned to become a cricketing spectacle for fans globally.
Participating Teams and Full Squads in Nepal Premier League 2024
The inaugural edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 has eight franchise teams, each featuring a combination of Nepalese talent and international cricket stars. The teams are expected to provide thrilling performances with well-balanced squads comprising experienced players and emerging talents. Here's a comprehensive look at each team and their full squads.
Biratnagar Kings
The Biratnagar Kings aim to dominate with a strong spin attack led by Nepal's star spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. Complemented by explosive batters and tactical leadership, they are among the tournament favorites.
Full Squad:
Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Malla, Pawan Sarraf, Avinash Bohara, Lalit Rajbanshi, Ashwin Joshi, Ishan Pandey, Sikandar Raza, Scott Kuggeleijn, Sharad Vesawkar, Binod Bhandari.Janakpur Bolts
The Bolts are bolstered by the inclusion of New Zealand's all-rounder James Neesham. With Aasif Sheikh’s leadership and a mix of experienced bowlers, they are a strong contender.
Full Squad:
Aasif Sheikh, James Neesham, Karan KC, Dipendra Singh Airee, Sushan Bhari, Kamal Singh Airee, Bhim Sharki, Jitendra Mukhiya, Gyanendra Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Sandeep Jora.Kathmandu Gurkhas
With Rashid Khan as their marquee player, the Gurkhas have a dynamic squad featuring strong all-rounders and aggressive top-order batters.
Full Squad:
Rashid Khan, Karan KC, Sompal Kami, Kushal Bhurtel, Gerhard Erasmus, Abinash Bohara, Aadil Khan, Binod Bhandari, Rohit Kumar Paudel, Bhuwan Karki, Sunil Dhamala.Lumbini Lions
Lumbini Lions bring a balanced squad featuring marquee all-rounders like Ben Cutting and young Nepalese talents, aiming to make a significant impact.
Full Squad:
Ben Cutting, Rohit Paudel, Mohammad Saifuddin, Dipendra Singh Airee, Basir Ahamad, Kushal Bhurtel, Sunil Dhamala, Karan KC, Lalit Rajbanshi, Pradeep Airee, Aarif Sheikh.Chitwan Rhinos
The Rhinos boast a strong bowling lineup with Marchant de Lange and talented Nepalese pacers. They are also strong in middle-order batting.
Full Squad:
Marchant de Lange, Aarif Sheikh, Kushal Malla, Avinash Bohara, Dipendra Singh Airee, Sunil Dhamala, Bhuwan Karki, Sushan Bhari, Aadil Khan, Pawan Sarraf, Sharad Vesawkar.Pokhara Avengers
Known for their all-round depth, the Avengers feature promising young talents and seasoned campaigners like Bas de Leede.
Full Squad:
Bas de Leede, Kushal Bhurtel, Sundeep Jora, Rohit Kumar Paudel, Lalit Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Sunil Dhamala, Avinash Bohara, Bhuwan Karki, Aarif Sheikh, Sushan Bhari.Sudurpaschim Royals
The Royals bring an impressive mix of international stars and local talents. Led by Dipendra Singh Airee, they aim to outclass opponents with consistent performances.
Full Squad:
Dipendra Singh Airee, Scott Kuggeleijn, Sunil Dhamala, Kushal Bhurtel, Karan KC, Binod Bhandari, Aarif Sheikh, Lalit Rajbanshi, Pawan Sarraf, Abinash Bohara, Sharad Vesawkar.Karnali Yaks
Karnali Yaks focus on nurturing young talents like Sompal Kami while maintaining a competitive edge with experienced bowlers and batters.
Full Squad:
Sompal Kami, Gulshan Jha, Sushan Bhari, Bhuwan Karki, Sunil Dhamala, Dipendra Singh Airee, Binod Bhandari, Aarif Sheikh, Sharad Vesawkar, Karan KC, Lalit Rajbanshi.Conclusion
The Nepal Premier League 2024 is poised to set a new benchmark for T20 cricket in Nepal. With high-profile players, competitive fixtures, and a well-structured format, the tournament is sure to capture the imagination of cricket enthusiasts. Whether you're rooting for seasoned players like Rashid Khan or rising stars from Nepal, the NPL promises unforgettable moments. Mark your calendar and stay tuned for an exhilarating season of cricket.