The Nepal Premier League (NPL) continues with two thrilling encounters on Wednesday at TU International Cricket Ground. Karnali Yaks face Kathmandu Gurkhas in the morning match starting at 9 AM NPT, while Biratnagar Kings meet Lumbini Lions at 1 PM NPT in the second game.
Karnali vs Kathmandu: one team to open their account
Both Karnali Yaks and Kathmandu Gurkhas are coming off losses in their opening games. Karnali suffered a defeat against Janakpur Bolts, despite a late batting surge from Arjun Gharti and Sompal Kami, who added 43 runs in the last two overs to post 141.
Their bowling, typically a strong suit, faltered as Janakpur’s openers dominated. Coach Gyanendra Malla is likely to stick with the same XI, emphasizing consistency even after an early loss.
Karnali Yaks Probable XI:
Shikhar Dhawan, Dev Khanal, Chadwick Walton, Babar Hayat, Zeeshan Maqsood, Gulshan Jha, Arjun Gharti, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Mausam Dhakal, Bhuvan Karki.
Kathmandu Gurkhas, on the other hand, struggled with the bat in their defeat against Chitwan Rhinos. Domestic players need to step up to complement their star overseas talents. Shahab Alam remains a key player after claiming three wickets in the first match. A possible change could see Krishna Karki replace Shankar Rana for added power-hitting and medium-pace options.
Kathmandu Gurkhas Probable XI:
Stephen Eskinazi, Michael Levitt, Sumit Maharjan, Gerhard Erasmus, Bhim Sharki, Krishna Karki, Rashid Khan, Dan Douthwaite, Karan KC, Shahab Alam, Dipesh Kandel.
Biratnagar vs Lumbini: A must-win for the Kings
In the afternoon clash, Biratnagar Kings seek to bounce back after back-to-back losses. Martin Guptill’s half-century in their opening game remains their only notable batting performance, while captain Sandeep Lamichhane has been wicketless in both matches. Biratnagar may consider bringing in Jitendra Mukhiya to bolster their bowling attack.
Biratnagar Kings Probable XI:
Martin Guptill, Lokesh Bam, Rajesh Pulami, Nicholas Kirton, Pratish GC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Jitendra Mukhiya, Chris Sole, Anil Kharel, Ismat Alam, Basir Ahamad.
Lumbini Lions, led by Nepal captain Rohit Paudel, are set to start their campaign. Their team boasts several all-rounders, providing balance and flexibility, but domestic batting remains a concern. A strong start will be crucial to establishing momentum in the tournament.
Lumbini Lions Probable XI:
Ashutosh Ghiraiya, Arjun Saud, Rohit Paudel, Ben Cutting, Bibek Yadav, Dinesh Adhikari, Saad Bin Zafar, Ramon Simmonds, Durgesh Gupta, Surya Tamang, Tilak Bhandari.
Where to watch
Fans can catch all the action live on Star Sports globally, Fancode in India, Dish Home Go OTT in Nepal, and Action SportsYouTube channel in Nepal.
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