Nepal’s domestic cricket scene steps into a bigger, more ambitious era as the Nepal Premier League 2025 begins today, 17 November. The tournament, running until 13 December, features eight teams and a packed schedule of 32 matches — all staged at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. The single-venue model is intentional: it creates a festival-like atmosphere, ensures consistent playing conditions, and keeps fans at the heart of the action.
This is only the second edition of the NPL, but the competition has already expanded in scale and seriousness. The format remains straightforward but competitive: a round-robin stage followed by playoffs, ending in a high-stakes final. Most notably, 23 of the 32 matches will be played under floodlights, signalling Nepal’s push toward more television-friendly, spectator-friendly T20 cricket. Day-night fixtures aren’t just cosmetic — they are a statement that the league wants to align with global franchise standards.
The opening clash sets the tone: defending champions Janakpur Bolts face Kathmandu Gorkhas in what many see as an early test of balance and squad depth. Tickets for the opener sold out quickly, and overall demand for the tournament has been noticeably high. The prize purse reflects this upward push — the winners stand to earn a significantly elevated amount compared to past domestic tournaments, underlining how seriously the Cricket Association of Nepal is backing franchise cricket.
The eight franchises — Janakpur Bolts, Chitwan Rhinos, Biratnagar Kings, Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, Karnali Yaks, Kathmandu Gorkhas, and Sudurpaschim Royals — bring together a strong mix of local talent and overseas imports. International players have been drafted in to raise the league’s competitiveness and give emerging Nepalese cricketers exposure to higher-level T20 skills. Young batters, spinners with raw potential, and seamers looking to break into the national setup all find the NPL a crucial proving ground.
The scheduling is dense but deliberate. Several days feature doubleheaders, helping franchise coaches experiment with combinations while also maintaining the momentum of the competition. For Nepalese players, especially those eyeing spots in the national T20 squad, this tournament offers unmatched visibility. Perform well here, and national selection becomes a real prospect.
Beyond the cricket itself, the NPL is symbolic of Nepal’s broader ambitions. The growing commercial interest, the shift toward night games, the emphasis on fan engagement, and the rapid professionalisation of franchise operations all indicate a board aiming to future-proof domestic cricket. Nepal’s fanbase is already passionate; now, they’re being given a product that matches that passion in scale and spectacle.
As the Nepal Premier League 2025 kicks off, the country is not merely hosting another domestic tournament — it’s building the foundation of a long-term cricketing ecosystem. If this season delivers on its promise, Nepal’s T20 landscape could evolve faster than anyone expected.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025