The captains of the teams participating in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) cricket tournament have been announced. The announcement was made during a program held on Friday at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground.
Anil Shah has been appointed as the captain of Janakpur Bolts, while the other teams have chosen their marquee players as captains. The captains are as follows:
• Biratnagar Kings: Sandeep Lamichhane
• Chitwan Rhinos: Kushal Malla
• Kathmandu Gurkhas: Karan KC
• Pokhara Avengers: Kushal Bhurtel
• Lumbini Lions: Rohit Paudel
• Karnali Yaks: Sompal Kami
• Sudurpashchim Royals: Dipendra Singh Airee
All the captains have expressed their readiness for the tournament.
Speaking at the event, Biratnagar Kings’ captain, Sandeep Lamichhane, said the team is balanced and everyone is excited. “While playing other leagues, I always wished for our own league, and now that dream has come true. The next 3-4 years will determine the full impact of the NPL,” he said.
Anil Shah, captain of Janakpur Bolts, mentioned their preparations in Kathmandu, emphasizing good performances in practice matches and excitement surrounding the NPL. “The hype of NPL is encouraging,” he added. Regarding his captaincy, Anil said, “I believe I was given this role because I communicate well with local players. All decisions will be made collaboratively with Asif, so it doesn’t matter much who the captain is.”
Chitwan Rhinos’ Kushal Malla expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the global broadcast of the league through Star Network. “Knowing that people around the world will watch us motivates us to perform well,” he shared.
Kathmandu Gurkhas’ captain, Karan KC, emphasized their month-long training with local players and the arrival of foreign players, which he believes will create a strong synergy.
Pokhara Avengers’ captain, Kushal Bhurtel, credited their Indian coach for excellent preparation in Pokhara, while Lumbini Lions’ captain, Rohit Paudel, shared the team’s readiness after training at the Extratech ground. “NPL is a significant competition, and just like IPL supported Indian cricket, NPL will uplift Nepali cricket,” Rohit added.
Sompal Kami, captain of Karnali Yaks, praised the blend of young Nepali players and experienced international players, calling it a strong team. “NPL has given many young players opportunities, and I believe this league will produce good players for Nepal,” he stated.
Dipendra Singh Airee, captain of Sudurpashchim Royals, expressed excitement about the strong mix of youth and international players in the team.
The opening match of the NPL will take place on Saturday between Janakpur Bolts and Biratnagar Kings.
