NPL 2025 Update: Kathmandu Gorkhas to face Lumbini Lions today

25th November 2025, Kathmandu

The Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025 is set for a vital clash as Kathmandu Gorkhas prepare to take on the Lumbini Lions in the 11th match of the tournament.

NPL 2025 Update

The day-night fixture is scheduled to commence today at 4 PM (local time) at the renowned Tribhuvan International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu. This match holds significant importance for both teams, as they currently sit in the middle of a tightly contested points table and are desperate to secure a win to bolster their chances for a playoff spot.

Team Standings and Recent Performance Analysis

Both teams enter the contest with two points each, making this match a direct battle for positioning in the lower half of the rankings.

Kathmandu Gorkhas

The Kathmandu Gorkhas, captained by the Nepali national team star Karan KC, have experienced a mixed start to their campaign.

Matches Played: 3

Points: 2

Performance Summary: They began their season with a significant victory against the defending champions, Janakpur Bolts, a result that promised a strong campaign. However, the Gorkhas have since faced two consecutive defeats at the hands of Sudurpashchim Royals and Biratnagar Kings. Their current Net Run Rate (NRR) of -0.604 (as of November 25) reflects the margin of these losses, making a victory today essential not only for the points but also for improving their overall run rate. This game marks their fourth match of the season.

Lumbini Lions

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The Lumbini Lions, led by the prolific national team captain Rohit Paudel, have played fewer matches but are equally poised for a critical performance.

Matches Played: 2

Points: 2

Performance Summary: The Lions kicked off their NPL 2025 season on a positive note, securing a win against the Chitwan Rhinos. However, their momentum was halted in their second game, where they were defeated by the Karnali Yaks. While they have only played two matches, their NRR of -1.527 (as of November 25) is currently the lowest among the one-win teams, indicating a need for a dominant win today. This fixture is the third match for the Lumbini side.

Strategic Importance of Match 11

This clash is far more than just a typical league encounter; it is a pivotal moment that could define the trajectory of both teams’ tournaments.

Climbing the Table: Both teams are currently tied with four other franchises on two points (Karnali Yaks, Chitwan Rhinos, Kathmandu Gorkhas, and Lumbini Lions). A win will immediately separate the victor from the pack, pushing them closer to the top four playoff qualification spots, which are currently dominated by the undefeated Sudurpaschim Royals and Biratnagar Kings (both with 6 points).

Gorkhas’ Momentum: For Kathmandu, ending their two-match losing streak is vital for team morale and preventing a further slide down the points table. Captain Karan KC will be looking to their star all-rounders and overseas players to deliver a performance that mirrors their season-opening success.

Lions’ Response: Lumbini Lions, under Rohit Paudel’s leadership, need to demonstrate resilience after their heavy loss against Karnali Yaks. The skipper himself has been one of the top run-scorers in the tournament so far, and the team will rely heavily on his bat and their international recruits to post a commanding score or chase down a challenging total effectively to boost their low NRR.

Tournament Context and Venue

The Nepal Premier League 2025 is the second season of Nepal’s franchise-based Twenty20 tournament, which features eight teams competing in a single round-robin format before advancing to the playoffs. All 32 matches are being played at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Stadium in Kirtipur, which has recently benefited from significant upgrades, including the installation of floodlights, making these evening matches possible. The pitch at TU Ground typically offers a balance between bat and ball, often favoring teams that bat second in day-night fixtures due to dew and improved pitch conditions. The average first-innings score at this venue during the NPL is highly competitive, often hovering around the 150-160 mark, setting the stage for an exciting contest today. This contest is a must-watch for fans, as it features two of the most popular franchises fighting for survival in the playoff race.

For More: NPL 2025 Update