The Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 continues with an exciting Bagmati Derby as Kathmandu Gurkhas face Chitwan Rhinos. Both teams bring a mix of experience and youth, promising a thrilling contest at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.
Match Details
- Match: Kathmandu Gurkhas vs Chitwan Rhinos
- Date: Monday, December 2, 2024
- Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
- Kick-off Time: 9:15 AM (NST)
Live Streaming and Broadcast
Don’t miss the thrilling clash between the Biratnagar Kings and the Chitwan Rhinos! Watch the live action on Action Sports’ YouTube channel and the Star Sports Network, delivering the excitement of this much-anticipated match to cricket fans across Nepal and beyond.
What to Expect: A Clash of Titans
The Gurkhas and Rhinos share similarities in their lineups, with both teams captained by aggressive national players. Karan KC leads Kathmandu Gurkhas, while Chitwan Rhinos are captained by the young all-rounder Kushal Malla, who is debuting as captain in the NPL.
Kathmandu Gurkhas feature experienced stars like Bhim Sharki, Karan KC, and Rashid Khan, complemented by marquee foreign players such as Stephen Eskinazi and Gerhard Erasmus. Meanwhile, Chitwan Rhinos boast a blend of youth and experience, including international stalwarts like Sohail Tanvir, Ravi Bopara, and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton.
Team Previews
Kathmandu Gurkhas:
With a balanced squad and experienced foreign recruits, Kathmandu looks solid on paper. Players like Dipesh Kandel (U19 World Cup) and Krishna Karki add depth, while the team benefits from the leadership of coach Basanta Shahi Thakuri.
Chitwan Rhinos:
Despite a few setbacks with injuries to key bowlers Kamal Singh Airee and Marchant de Lange, Chitwan has bolstered their squad with veteran Sohail Tanvir. The team is a mix of promising talents and seasoned players like Sharad Vesawkar, guided by coach Umesh Patwal.
Probable Playing XI
Kathmandu Gurkhas:
Stephen Eskinazi, Michael Levitt, Gerhard Erasmus, Sumit Maharjan, Bhim Sharki, Dan Douthwaite, Krishna Karki, Karan KC, Rashid Khan, Dipesh Kandel, Shahab Alam
Chitwan Rhinos:
Santosh Karki, Hassan Eisakhil, Ravi Bopara, Kushal Malla, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Sharad Vesawkar, Deepak Bohara, Amar Singh Routela, Rijan Dhakal, Sohail Tanvir
Bagmati Derby Highlights
- Captains’ Showdown: Experienced Karan KC vs debutant Kushal Malla.
- Foreign Stars: Ravi Bopara, Sohail Tanvir, and Gerhard Erasmus add an international flair.
- Players to Watch: Stephen Eskinazi for Kathmandu; Kushal Malla and Loftie-Eaton for Chitwan.
This match is set to be a high-stakes contest, with Kathmandu’s power-packed lineup going against Chitwan’s resilient and diverse squad. Expect a nail-biting encounter as the Bagmati Derby sets the tone for the NPL season!
