After a tough loss in their opening match, Biratnagar Kings will be looking to bounce back when they face the Sudurpaschim Royals on Tuesday in the Nepal Premier League. The match will be held at the TU International Cricket Ground, with a 9 PM NPT start.
The Sudurpaschim Royals will be making their debut in the competition after a strong practice match performance against Chitwan Rhinos. Biratnagar Kings coming off a tough eight-wicket loss to Janakpur Bolts in the league opener, and will be keen to make a strong statement in their second match.
Biratnagar Kings’ struggles in opening game
The Kings had a forgettable start to their campaign, with only Martin Guptill providing a bright spot by scoring the first-ever fifty in the league. However, the team struggled overall, particularly with the ball.
Their star bowler, Sandeep Lamichhane, failed to pick up a wicket, and the bowling tactics raised some questions, especially with Jitendra Mukhiya being limited to just two overs despite a strong start, conceding only 12 runs in the first two. The Kings also seemed to lack trust in Anil Kharel, one of their key spinners, who wasn’t given enough opportunities.
With Aqib Ilyas likely ruled out of the match due to a health issue, the Kings will be forced to make adjustments. Kamal Khatri, who was picked up from the talent hunt in Biratnagar, is likely to replace him, bolstering the bowling attack.
Sudurpaschim Royals’ balanced lineup
The Royals are expected to come strong with a well-balanced squad, featuring a blend of domestic and foreign all-rounders. Their captain, Dipendra Singh Airee, is one to watch, as he currently ranks second in the ICC Men’s T20I all-rounder rankings. Airee will be expected to lead from the front, and he scored a crucial 48 runs in the practice match, guiding Sudurpaschim to a 38-run victory over Chitwan Rhinos at Mulpani Cricket Ground.
Alongside Airee, the Royals have a solid top order featuring Amit Shrestha, Ishan Pandey, and Brendon McMullen, followed by a strong middle and lower order with Aarif Sheikh, Binod Bhandari, Basanta Khatri, and Saif Zaib. Their bowling will be anchored by Scott Kuggeleijn, Bhojraj Bhatta, and Abinash Bohara, all of whom bring international experience and local knowledge to the table.
Live Streaming Details
Fans can follow all the action live on Star Sports globally, Fancode in India, Dish Home Go OTT in Nepal, and Action Sports YouTube channel in Nepal.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagramfor more such updates.
