The Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 kicks off today, November 30, 2024, with an electrifying opening match between the Biratnagar Kings and Janakpur Bolts. The match is set to begin at 12:15 PM NST at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. This game marks the start of Nepal’s most anticipated cricket tournament, showcasing a mix of local and international cricketing talent.
Biratnagar Kings
Marquee Player: Sandeep Lamichhane (Captain)
Domestic Players:
- Lokesh Bam
- Pratish GC
- Bashir Ahmad
- Rajesh Pulami Magar
- Jitendra Kumar Mukhiya
- Anil Kharel
- Dipak Bohara
- Subhash Bhandari
- Naren Bhatta
- Mrinal Gurung
Foreign Players:
- Martin Guptill (New Zealand)
- Chris Sole (Scotland)
- Nicholas Kirton (West Indies)
- Aqib Ilyas (Oman)
- Ismat Alam (Afghanistan)
Head Coach: Kevin O’Brien (Ireland)
Janakpur Bolts
Marquee Player: Aasif Sheikh
Captain: Anil Kumar Sah
Domestic Players:
- Lalit Rajbanshi
- Kishore Mahato
- Rupesh Singh
- Aakash Tripathi
- Shubh Kansakar
- Hemanta Dhami
- Arniko Yadav
- Sher Malla
- Tul Bahadur Thapa Magar
Foreign Players:
- Joshua Tromp (South Africa)
- James Neesham (New Zealand)
- Sohaib Maqsood (Pakistan)
- Lahiru Milantha (Sri Lanka)
- Muhammad Mohsin (UAE)
Head Coach: Pubudu Dassanayake (Sri Lanka)
Match Predictions
Both teams bring a unique mix of strengths to the field:
- Biratnagar Kings will rely on Sandeep Lamichhane’s spin mastery and Martin Guptill’s explosive batting to establish dominance. The Kings also boast a formidable bowling attack, with contributions expected from Mukhiya and Sole.
- Janakpur Bolts, on the other hand, will be banking on Aasif Sheikh’s leadership and all-round brilliance from James Neesham. With experienced foreign stars like Maqsood and Milantha, they have the firepower to challenge any opponent.
Prediction:
The Biratnagar Kings have a slight edge due to their strong bowling lineup, led by Lamichhane, but the Bolts have the capability to surprise with their depth in all-rounders. Expect a thrilling, close contest.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the match live on Star Sports Network, with online streaming available on DishHome.
