The Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025 brings an exciting contest as the Chitwan Rhinos take on the Lumbini Lions at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. The Rhinos already have a win and confidence on their side, while the Lions are looking to start their season strong after struggling last year.
Team Preview
Chitwan Rhinos started their campaign with full of confidence after 4 wickets victory over Karnali yaks, Deepak Bohara who anchored the innings in opening match played 42 runs off 36 deliveries while Dawid Malan and Dev khanal will aim to find rhythm early the season, Ravi Bopara played a key role, scoring a fluent 52 off 36 balls . Another standout performer was Saif Zaib, who smashed a quick 38 off just 16 deliveries. His late hitting helped the Rhinos finish the run-chase comfortably.
On the other hand ,The Lumbini Lions had a tough time last season, finishing at the bottom of the table. However, their only win in 2024 was against the Rhinos, giving them a small psychological edge. This year, they have rebuilt their squad with several new international players, hoping to start fresh.
Captain Rohit Paudel remains the heart of the team. Last season, he was their top scorer with 279 runs and played the role of an anchor. While Darcy Short and Gulbadin Naib and Jj Smit who added more balance with their all round ability, while their bowling lead by Ruben Trumplemann, Gulbadin Naib, and Jj Smit while Rohit Paudel and Darcy Short brings spin options.
Chitwan Rhinos vs Lumbini Lions Head to Head Records in NPL
Total matches played: 1
Lumbini Lions won : 1
Chitwan Rhinos: 0
No Results: 0
Pitch Report
Matches at the Kirtipur ground this season have shown mixed results. While some games were easier for chasing teams, a recent match saw a total of 147 defended successfully. This means the pitch is offering support to both bowlers and batters A score between 180and 190 should be competitive. Winning the toss might be Bowl first.
Probable playing XIs
Chitwan Rhinos
Deepak Bohara, Dawid Malan, Dev khanal, Kushal Malla(c), Ravi Bhopara, Saif Zaib , Arjun Saud (wk), Sohail Tanvir, Bipin Acharya, Kamal Singh Airee, Raijan Dhakal
Lumbini Lions
Rohit Paudel (c), Darcy Short, Sundeep Jora , Gulbadin Naib, Dlip Nath(wk), Abhishesh Gautam Jj Smit, Ruben Trumplemann, Dinesh Adhikari, Tilak Bhandari, Bibek Kumar Yadav
Players to Watch Out
Ravi Bhopara
Saif Zaib
Dawid Malan
Rohit Paudel
Darcy Short
Gulbadin Naib
Match Prediction
Chitwan Rhinos hold slightly edge because of more experience and Batting depth while Lumbini Lions results depends on how foreign players and Rohit Paudel perform.
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