Get full updates on Nepal Premier League Season 2—teams, schedule, upgrades, star players, and 2025 format in this detailed NPL season guide.
Introduction to Nepal Premier League Season 2
The excitement is soaring across the country as Nepal Premier League Season 2 prepares for another memorable chapter in Nepal’s cricketing revolution. Scheduled from November 17 to December 13, 2025, this year’s tournament promises bigger names, better production, stronger squads, and a completely revamped viewing experience for the fans. With all 32 matches scheduled at the iconic Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, the NPL is entering a new phase of growth, ambition, and international recognition.
Nepal’s domestic cricket scene has gained tremendous popularity in recent years, and the NPL stands at the forefront of this development. Season 1 laid the foundation, but Season 2 builds the skyscraper - bringing upgrades across teams, coaching, infrastructure, and entertainment.
What’s New in Nepal Premier League Season 2 (2025 Edition)
Season 2 is much more than a continuation; it’s a significant upgrade. The league organizers have focused on enhancing both on-ground performance and fan experience.
Full Transition to Floodlit Day-Night Matches
The biggest leap from Season 1 is the complete adoption of floodlit day-night matches. Unlike last year, where lighting was used sparingly, Season 2 introduces:
-
Better visibility
-
A more thrilling evening atmosphere
-
Enhanced TV production
-
Higher fan turnout after work hours
This shift aligns NPL with top T20 leagues globally, making it more marketable and broadcast-friendly.
Revamped Squads After the 2025 Auction
The 2025 NPL Auction reshaped the league:
-
51 players retained
-
37 players bought
-
Highest bid: NPR 15 lakh
These squad reshuffles bring new rivalries, young talent, and strategic depth. Teams now feature a stronger mix of youth, Nepali internationals, and international pros.
Rise of International Stars & Coaching Influence
Season 2 sees a dramatic rise in global names:
-
Faf du Plessis signed by Biratnagar Kings
-
Rumors of Rashid Khan and other marquee signings
Coaching has gone world-class too:
-
Shivnarine Chanderpaul guiding Janakpur Bolts
-
Monty Desai leading Kathmandu Gorkhas
-
Tinu Yohannan, Pubudu Dassanayake, and more
Their presence will significantly influence match preparation, team chemistry, and player development.
Improvements in Logistics, Broadcast & Fan Experience
Season 2 has tightened production and logistics:
-
Full HD broadcasting
-
Improved seating and lighting at TU Ground
-
Enhanced security and crowd flow
-
Better scheduling with more double-headers
For fans, this means a smoother, more enjoyable cricket festival.
Full Teams List for Nepal Premier League Season 2
Below are the eight franchises participating in 2025:
Captains, Coaches & Key Strengths
| Team | Captain | Coach | Team Identity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biratnagar Kings | Sandeep Lamichhane | Pubudu Dassanayake | Spin-heavy, experienced core |
| Chitwan Rhinos | Kushal Malla | Kalam Ali | Power-hitting unit |
| Janakpur Bolts | Anil Sah | Shivnarine Chanderpaul | Defending champions, balanced squad |
| Karnali Yaks | Sompal Kami | Gyanendra Malla | Strong pace attack |
| Kathmandu Gorkhas | Karan KC | Monty Desai | Elite bowling unit |
| Lumbini Lions | Rohit Paudel | Tinu Yohannan | Young, energetic group |
| Pokhara Avengers | Kushal Bhurtel | Rajiv Kumar | Aggressive top order |
| Sudurpaschim Royals | Dipendra Singh Airee | Jagat Tamata | Strong all-rounders |
Venue Overview: Tribhuvan University International Ground
Stadium Capacity, Pitch Behavior & Weather Factors
-
Capacity: ~12,000
-
Pitch: Batting-friendly, offering some grip for spinners
-
Weather: Cool evenings ideal for cricket
-
Advantages: Iconic crowd energy, central access, upgraded lighting
TU Ground remains the beating heart of Nepali cricket.
Tournament Format Explained
League Stage Structure
-
8 teams
-
Single round-robin
-
7 matches per team
-
28 total league matches
Top 4 advance to playoffs.
Playoffs Roadmap
-
Qualifier 1: 1st vs 2nd – Winner enters Final
-
Eliminator: 3rd vs 4th
-
Qualifier 2: Q1 loser vs Eliminator winner
-
Final: Winners of Q1 & Q2 battle for the trophy
Nepal Premier League Season 2 Schedule Overview
Opening Match Breakdown
Janakpur Bolts vs Kathmandu Gorkhas
A rematch with intensity - Bolts defend their title, while Gorkhas arrive with renewed firepower.
Double-Header Days & Mid-Tournament Action
Regular back-to-back matches give broadcasters prime-time content and fans more cricket per day.
Team-by-Team Season Preview
Biratnagar Kings
With Faf du Plessis rumored and Sandeep Lamichhane leading, this team is a powerhouse.
Janakpur Bolts
The defending champions are determined to repeat history under Chanderpaul’s coaching.
Kathmandu Gorkhas
A formidable bowling attack makes them one of the toughest teams to score against.
Sudurpaschim Royals
Last year’s finalists return with hunger and dynamic all-rounders.
Lumbini Lions
The young talent factory featuring Rohit Paudel.
Pokhara Avengers
Aggressive and unpredictable - always a threat.
Chitwan Rhinos
A blend of youth and power hitters.
Karnali Yaks
A pace-driven team with explosive late-order options.
Key Players to Watch in Nepal Premier League Season 2
Emerging Nepal Talents
-
Aarif Sheikh
-
Gulsan Jha
-
Aasif Sheikh
-
Pratis GC
Impact Foreign Players
-
Faf du Plessis
-
Potential stars from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe
Broadcasting & Streaming Guide
How to Watch in Nepal
-
DishHome Go (NPR 300)
-
Cable TV partners
How to Watch Internationally
-
DishHome Go (USD 10)
-
Regional sports networks
Official site: https://nplt20league.com
Comparison: Season 1 vs Season 2 Upgrades
| Factor | Season 1 | Season 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | Nov 30 – Dec 21 | Nov 17 – Dec 13 |
| Matches | 32 | 32 |
| Venue | Mostly TU Ground | All at TU Ground |
| Lighting | Limited | Full floodlights |
| Player Auction | Draft system | Major 2025 auction |
| Coaches | Mostly local | Global stars |
Why Nepal Premier League Season 2 Matters for Nepali Cricket
-
Boosts domestic cricket structure
-
Creates financial stability
-
Raises global viewership
-
Develops young talent under legends
-
Helps Nepal’s T20 ambitions
FAQs
1. When does Nepal Premier League Season 2 start?
It begins on November 17, 2025.
2. Where are the matches held?
All matches take place at TU Ground, Kirtipur.
3. How many teams are participating?
Eight franchises.
4. How do I watch NPL 2025 live?
Through DishHome Go, ESPNcricinfo updates, and regional sports channels.
5. Who are the defending champions?
Janakpur Bolts won the 2024 inaugural season.
6. Are foreign players allowed?
Yes, with a limit on playing XI composition.
Conclusion
The Nepal Premier League Season 2 stands as a milestone for Nepali cricket - bigger, brighter, more competitive, and more professionally managed than ever. With improved squads, legendary coaches, stronger sponsorship, and a world-class fan experience, NPL 2025 is ready to deliver Nepal’s most exciting cricketing season yet.
COMMENTS