Two exciting matches are lined up for Day 4 of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
Match 1: Karnali Yaks vs Kathmandu Gurkhas (9 AM)
Both Karnali Yaks and Kathmandu Gurkhas are aiming for their first win after losing their opening matches. Karnali, led by Sompal Kami, lost to Janakpur Bolts by 8 wickets, while Kathmandu, captained by Karan KC, suffered a 5-wicket defeat against Chitwan Rhinos.
This game is expected to be thrilling as both teams feature international stars. Karnali boasts Indian cricket legend Shikhar Dhawan, whose presence has brought excitement to the tournament. However, Dhawan managed only 14 runs in his first match. Alongside him, Hong Kong’s Babar Hayat and Oman’s Zeeshan Maqsood add strength to Karnali’s lineup.
On the other side, Kathmandu has Netherlands’ Michael Levitt and Namibia’s captain Gerhard Erasmus, both with prior experience in Nepali conditions.
Match 2: Biratnagar Kings vs Lumbini Lions (1 PM)
Biratnagar Kings, captained by Sandeep Lamichhane, are under pressure after losing their first two matches against Janakpur Bolts and Sudurpaschim Royals. Their star batter, New Zealand’s Martin Guptill, scored a half-century in the first match but was dismissed for zero in the second.
Lumbini Lions, led by Rohit Paudel, will be playing their first match of the tournament. They are eager to start their campaign with a win. Lumbini’s squad includes notable players like Australian all-rounder Ben Cutting, former India U19 World Cup-winning captain Unmukt Chand, Canada’s Saad Bin Zafar, England’s Tom Moores, and Barbados’ Ramon Simmonds.
What to Expect
- Karnali vs Kathmandu: A tightly contested match with international experience on both sides. Shikhar Dhawan’s performance will be key for Karnali, while Kathmandu will look to capitalize on their balanced lineup.
- Biratnagar vs Lumbini: Biratnagar needs to bounce back after consecutive losses, while Lumbini will aim to make a strong start with their mix of local and international talent.
Fans can expect an action-packed day as teams battle to make their mark in the tournament!