Author: Fame Mandu Team

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by Fame Mandu Team

Nepal Announces 15-Member Squad for ICC CWC League 2 2025 – Complete Team Analysis and Tournament Preview

Nepal’s Crucial Step Towards 2027 World Cup Qualification

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 tri-series in Scotland, marking a significant milestone in Nepal’s journey towards the 2027 ODI World Cup. Led by the dynamic Rohit Paudel and featuring a mix of established stars and exciting new talent, this squad represents Nepal’s strongest possible combination for the crucial tournament set to begin in June 2025.

Complete Squad Breakdown: Experience Meets Youth

Leadership Core

  • Captain: Rohit Paudel (Middle-order batsman)
  • Vice-Captain: Dipendra Singh Airee (Power-hitting all-rounder)

Batting Department

  • Openers:
    • Aasif Sheikh (Wicketkeeper-batsman)
    • Kushal Bhurtel (Aggressive right-hander)
  • Middle Order:
    • Anil Kumar Sah (Solid No. 3)
    • Bhim Sharki (Technically sound batsman)
    • Aarif Sheikh (Reliable finisher)

All-Round Options

  • Basir Ahmad (Spin-bowling all-rounder)
  • Gulshan Kumar Jha (Pace-bowling all-rounder)

Bowling Attack

  • Spinners:
    • Sandeep Lamichhane (Lead leg-spinner)
    • Lalit Narayan Rajbanshi (Left-arm orthodox)
  • Pacers:
    • Sompal Kami (Swing bowler)
    • Karan KC (Death overs specialist)
    • Rijan Dhakal (Emerging quick)
    • Nandan Yadav (New call-up)

Key Selections and Notable Omissions

Major Inclusions

  1. Nandan Yadav’s Maiden Call-up:
    • The 22-year-old fast bowler earned his spot through consistent performances in domestic cricket
    • Adds much-needed depth to Nepal’s pace battery
    • Known for his ability to swing the ball at good pace
  2. Return of Experienced Campaigners:
    • Sandeep Lamichhane back to lead the spin attack
    • Sompal Kami and Karan KC continuing as pace spearheads

Surprising Exclusions

  • Shubh Kansakar: The talented youngster was widely tipped for selection
  • Pratish GC: The all-rounder misses out despite decent recent form
  • Shahab Alam: The pacer’s omission raises eyebrows given his experience

Tournament Preparation and Schedule

Pre-Series Warm-ups

The Nepali team will undergo an intensive preparation phase including:

  • Two-week training camp in Kathmandu
  • Practice matches against English county sides
  • Specialized sessions focusing on Scottish conditions

League 2 Fixtures

Nepal will play:

  • June 10: vs Scotland (Aberdeen)
  • June 12: vs Netherlands (Edinburgh)
  • June 15: vs Scotland (Glasgow)
  • June 18: vs Netherlands (Dundee)

Team Composition Analysis

Batting Strengths

  • Solid opening pair of Sheikh and Bhurtel
  • Experience in middle-order with Paudel and Airee
  • Depth till No. 9 with all-rounders

Bowling Resources

  • Spin Duo: Lamichhane and Rajbanshi offer variety
  • Pace Quartet: Kami, KC, Dhakal and Yadav provide options
  • Part-time Options: Airee and Ahmad can chip in

Players to Watch

  1. Rohit Paudel (Captain)
    • Needs to lead from front with bat
    • Crucial in stabilizing middle-order
  2. Sandeep Lamichhane
    • Returning after injury concerns
    • Expected to be wicket-taking threat
  3. Nandan Yadav
    • X-factor player with raw pace
    • Could surprise opposition batsmen

Tournament Significance for Nepal Cricket

The CWC League 2 represents:

  • Direct pathway to 2027 World Cup
  • Opportunity to improve ODI ranking
  • Chance to test bench strength
  • Platform for young players to shine

Historical Context: Nepal in CWC League 2

Looking back at Nepal’s previous performances:

  • 2019-2023 cycle: Finished 5th out of 7 teams
  • Key wins against UAE and Namibia
  • Struggles against stronger associates

Expert Predictions and Expectations

Cricket analysts suggest:

  • Nepal should target at least 3 wins
  • Scotland will be toughest opponents
  • Netherlands matches are 50-50 contests
  • Key to success will be consistent batting

Post-Tournament Plans: T20I Tri-Series

After League 2 concludes:

  • Nepal stays in Scotland for T20Is
  • Three new players join squad:
    1. Kiran Thagunna (WK/Batsman)
    2. Lokesh Bam (Aggressive opener)
    3. Rupesh Kumar Singh (All-rounder)

Fan Expectations and Social Media Buzz

Early reactions from Nepali fans:

  • Excitement about Nandan’s inclusion
  • Questions about Kansakar’s omission
  • Hope for Lamichhane’s full fitness
  • Expectations of competitive showing

Conclusion: Nepal’s Moment to Shine

This CWC League 2 campaign represents a golden opportunity for Nepal to:

  • Establish themselves as top Associate nation
  • Develop young talent for future
  • Build momentum towards World Cup
  • Inspire next generation of cricketers

Stay tuned to CricGend for exclusive match coverage, player interviews, and in-depth analysis throughout Nepal’s CWC League 2 journey!

by Fame Mandu Team

Aadil Alam Cleared of Spot-Fixing Charges, CAN Lifts Ban – Full Story

Nepali Cricketer Aadil Alam Free to Play After CAN Overturns Ban

In a significant development for Nepali cricket, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has officially cleared all-rounder Aadil Alam of spot-fixing allegations and lifted his suspension with immediate effect. The decision comes after a 14-month investigation that found insufficient evidence to support the original charges.

Timeline of the Aadil Alam Controversy

January 2023: Arrest and Initial Ban

  • Alam was arrested by Nepal Police’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB)
  • Accused of spot-fixing during 2022/23 Nepal T20 League
  • CAN imposed immediate ban from all cricket activities

March 2023: Investigation Concludes

  • Police investigation failed to find concrete evidence
  • Case lacked proof to proceed legally
  • However, CAN maintained suspension pending internal review

May 2024: CAN’s Final Verdict

  • Integrity Committee completes thorough assessment
  • Ban officially lifted after due process
  • Alam now eligible for national selection and domestic cricket

What Does This Mean for Nepal Cricket?

For Aadil Alam

  • Can resume career after 14-month forced hiatus
  • Eligible for ODIs, T20Is, and domestic leagues
  • Must rebuild reputation after controversy

For the National Team

  • Boosts T20 squad depth – Alam is a hard-hitting finisher & handy medium pacer
  • Adds much-needed all-rounder option
  • Could feature in upcoming World Cup qualifiers

For CAN’s Anti-Corruption Measures

  • Shows system works – allegations taken seriously
  • But also highlights need for:
    • Faster resolution of such cases
    • Better evidence-gathering to protect players

Aadil Alam’s Career at a Glance

FormatMatchesRunsWicketsBest Figures
ODIs68742/18
T20Is811252/12
T20 Leagues15+300+10+3/15

Key Strengths:

  • Power-hitting in death overs
  • Accurate medium-pace variations
  • Agile fielder

Reactions from Cricket Community

CAN Statement

“After exhaustive review, the Integrity Committee found no grounds to continue the ban. Aadil Alam is cleared to resume his cricket career.”

Former Coaches on Alam

“He was developing into a reliable finisher before the controversy. If he regains form, he’s an asset in T20s.” – Nepal Assistant Coach

Fan Reactions

  • “Justice served! Now let him play!”
  • “Hope he comes back stronger”
  • “Need to see how he performs after long break”

What’s Next for Aadil Alam?

  1. Domestic Comeback – Likely to feature in upcoming Nepal T20 League
  2. National Recall – Could earn spot in T20 World Cup qualifier squads
  3. Franchise Opportunities – May attract overseas league offers if form returns

Key Takeaways

✔ No evidence found to prove spot-fixing allegations
✔ Ban lifted after 14 months – free to play immediately
✔ Big boost for Nepal’s T20 setup if Alam rediscovers form
✔ Highlights need for faster resolution in future cases

Stay tuned for updates on Aadil Alam’s comeback matches and national selection prospects!

by Fame Mandu Team

India vs Australia, Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final: Preview, Predictions, and Key Battles

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is reaching its climax, and cricket fans around the world are gearing up for one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. On March 4, India and Australia will face off in the first semi-final at the Dubai International Stadium. This high-stakes encounter promises to be a thrilling battle between two cricketing powerhouses with a storied rivalry.

Match Details

  • Fixture: India vs Australia, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final
  • Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2025
  • Time: 2:30 PM IST
  • Venue: Dubai International Stadium, UAE

Road to the Semi-Final

India’s Journey

India has been in phenomenal form throughout the tournament, finishing as Group A toppers with three wins in three games. The team showcased its dominance with impressive performances against Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand. In their last group-stage match, a 44-run victory over New Zealand saw mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy emerge as a match-winner with a five-wicket haul.

Australia’s Journey

Australia, on the other hand, had a mixed group-stage campaign. They started strong with a victory over England but saw their next two matches washed out due to rain. Despite this setback, they secured a spot in the semi-finals as the second-best team in Group B. However, the absence of key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc poses a challenge for the Aussies.

Head-to-Head Record

In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Australia has historically held the upper hand against India. Out of 151 encounters:

  • India Wins: 57
  • Australia Wins: 84
  • No Result/Ties: 10

India’s record against Australia in ICC knockout games hasn’t been great in recent years, with just one win in their last four encounters since 2010. The most recent ICC knockout clash between these two teams was the 2023 ODI World Cup final, where Australia defeated India in Ahmedabad to lift the trophy.

Expected Lineups

India’s Probable XI:

  1. Rohit Sharma (c)
  2. Shubman Gill
  3. Virat Kohli
  4. Shreyas Iyer
  5. Axar Patel
  6. KL Rahul (wk)
  7. Hardik Pandya
  8. Ravindra Jadeja
  9. Harshit Rana
  10. Kuldeep Yadav
  11. Varun Chakravarthy

Australia’s Probable XI:

  1. Travis Head
  2. Steven Smith (c)
  3. Josh Inglis (wk)
  4. Marnus Labuschagne
  5. Alex Carey
  6. Glenn Maxwell
  7. Cooper Connolly
  8. Ben Dwarshuis
  9. Nathan Ellis
  10. Adam Zampa
  11. Spencer Johnson

Key Battles to Watch

1. Rohit Sharma vs Australia’s Pacers

Rohit Sharma’s aggressive approach in powerplays can put India in a commanding position early on. However, Australia’s pace attack, led by Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson, will look to strike early and dismiss the Indian captain cheaply.

2. Virat Kohli vs Adam Zampa

Virat Kohli has been India’s most reliable batter in high-pressure games, but leg-spinner Adam Zampa has troubled him in the past. This battle in the middle overs will be crucial in determining India’s ability to accelerate later in the innings.

3. Glenn Maxwell vs Indian Spinners

Glenn Maxwell’s ability to take on spinners will be key for Australia. With India likely to rely on Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy, Maxwell’s aggressive stroke play could either win Australia the game or lead to his downfall.

Match Prediction

India enters this match as the favorites, given their dominant form and familiarity with the Dubai conditions. Their bowling attack, particularly the spinners, will play a crucial role against an Australian side missing key pacers. However, Australia has a history of rising to the occasion in ICC tournaments, and their experience in high-pressure knockout matches could make them a dangerous opponent.

Prediction: India holds the edge, but Australia is more than capable of staging an upset. Expect a close contest with India having a 60-40 advantage going into the game.

Final Thoughts

With a spot in the Champions Trophy final at stake, this match is set to be a spectacle. India will look to avenge their 2023 World Cup final defeat, while Australia will aim to continue their dominance in ICC tournaments. Cricket fans worldwide can expect a thrilling contest in Dubai!

PM CUP Women
by Fame Mandu Team

Baitadi Wins Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s Cricket Qualifier!

Baitadi clinches the title of the Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s T20 Far Western Provincial Qualifying Cricket Tournament!

In an exciting final held on Thursday, Baitadi defeated Kanchanpur by 6 wickets to secure the championship. The win was powered by a stellar all-round performance from Janaki Thapa, with contributions from Captain Ritu Kanoujia (22* runs) and Janaki Thapa (14* runs), who guided Baitadi to victory while chasing a modest target of 72 runs in 12.2 overs.

Earlier, Kanchanpur posted a total of 71 runs, with Revati Dhami contributing a strong 41 runs. However, Baitadi’s bowlers, led by Janaki Thapa with 2 wickets, kept the pressure on, leading them to victory.

🏅 Award Highlights:

  • Best Player: Ritu Kanoujia (Baitadi)
  • Best Batter: Bindu Rawal (Kanchanpur)
  • Best Bowler: Karishma Thapa (Baitadi)
  • Emerging Player: Jayanti Bhandari (Doti)

The tournament, which began on Poush 19, saw 7 teams from the province compete for the prestigious title. The national competition for the Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s Cricket will take place in Dhangadhi from Magh 1.

🎉 Congratulations to all the players and teams for their outstanding performances! 🙌

#Baitadi #PrimeMinistersCup #WomenCricket #CricketChampions #FarWesternProvince #NepalCricket #SportsNews #CricketFinals #WomenInSports

Nepal Premier League NPL
by Fame Mandu Team

Where to Watch Nepal Premier League: Live Streaming & Telecast Details

The Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 has cricket fans buzzing with excitement. Featuring top Nepali players and international stars, this tournament promises to deliver high-quality cricketing action. If you’re wondering where to watch the NPL 2024 live, here’s a detailed guide.

Broadcast Star Sports

Nepal Premier League 2024: Overview

Start Date: November 30, 2024 Playoffs: December 18–21, 2024 Final Match: December 21, 2024

Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
Total Matches: 32, including playoffs

How to Watch NPL 2024 in Nepal

Live Broadcast TV

Viewers in Nepal can watch all the matches live on Star Sports Select 1, which is available with major cable and satellite TV platforms.

Live Stream

Online viewers in Nepal have two options:

Dish Home Media Network:

All the matches will be broadcast live on the Action Sports HD platform, which can be accessed via a mobile device, tablet, or smart TV. This premium service assures high-quality streaming for complete viewer satisfaction.

Action Sports YouTube Channel:
Matches will also be freely available for online viewers on the Action Sports YouTube channel for easy and accessible coverage of Nepali audiences.

Where to Watch NPL 2024 in India
Live TV Broadcast

The tournament will be telecast on Star Sports Select 1 channels. This provides complete coverage of the entire tournament with expert commentary and HD visuals.

Live Streaming

In India, all the matches will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.

Tour Pass: ₹89

Platform Features: FanCode offers seamless access to all matches with user-friendly streaming on multiple devices.

Where to Watch NPL 2024 Internationally

The Star Sports Select 1 channels, though, can be accessed to watch the NPL for fans outside Nepal and India in the availability of the network. However, the Action Sports YouTube channel might also be available in some countries for free and is an excellent option to watch for international viewers.
Main Information

Match Timings:

Morning Matches: 9:15 AM Local Time / 9:00 AM IST
Afternoon Matches: 12:15 PM Local Time / 12:00 PM IST
Evening Matches: 1:15 PM Local Time / 1:00 PM IST

The Star Players include Nepali icons like Sandeep Lamichhane and Dipendra Singh Airee, while including international stars like Shikhar Dhawan and Unmukt Chand into the NPL. All in all, it covers both local and global talents.

Final Thoughts

The Nepal Premier League 2024 promises to be an exhilarating cricketing event, and the options to catch it are very convenient in Nepal, India, or anywhere around the world. Be it through TV or streaming platforms like Dish Home or FanCode, there’s just no excuse to miss the action.

Mark your calendars, tune in to your favorite platform, and enjoy the first-ever NPL tournament! For more updates, follow the league’s official channels and broadcasters.

NPL Trophy
by Fame Mandu Team

Nepal Premier League Trophy Unveiled at Iconic Dharahara

The highly anticipated Nepal Premier League (NPL) trophy was officially unveiled today in a grand ceremony at the historic Dharahara in Kathmandu. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli took center stage, unveiling the gleaming trophy in the presence of fans, officials, and cricketing stars.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by marquee players representing the eight teams participating in this year’s league. The trophy, a symbol of the nation’s cricketing aspirations, has a unique touch: its upper portion contains a stone brought from Kalapatthar, emphasizing Nepal’s pride in its natural heritage.

NPL 2024

Paras Khadka, secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), highlighted the significance of the event. “This trophy represents not just victory but the passion and dedication of Nepali cricket fans. Bringing the trophy to Dharahara symbolizes resilience and unity, just like our cricket team embodies on the field,” he remarked.

The NPL tournament, featuring eight competitive teams, is scheduled to begin on November 30, with all matches set to be held at the Tribhuvan University cricket ground in Kirtipur. The league will culminate in a thrilling final on December 21, where the top teams will vie for the coveted trophy.

As fans eagerly await the start of the tournament, the unveiling ceremony at Dharahara has set a celebratory tone, blending Nepal’s rich cultural landmarks with its growing sports enthusiasm.

The cricket community and fans across the nation look forward to what promises to be an exciting month of cricket.

Shikhar Dhawan
by Fame Mandu Team

Shikhar Dhawan to Earn $30,000 Per Match in Nepal Premier League 2024

Indian cricket star Shikhar Dhawan will be paid $30,000 (approximately NPR 40.5 lakhs) for each match he plays in the upcoming Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. Dhawan has signed with the Karnali Yaks, and the franchise has confirmed he will play four matches during the tournament.

Dhawan is expected to arrive in Nepal on November 29 and will attend the NPL opening ceremony. Although he won’t be playing on the first day, he will interact with fans and enjoy the opening festivities. The cricket icon will feature in the NPL despite his usual social media posts fetching up to 1 crore INR.

NPL

The Nepal Premier League 2024 kicks off on November 30, with matches to be held at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Fans are eagerly awaiting the thrilling action with big names like Dhawan and other international stars participating in the inaugural edition of the tournament.

Broadcast Star Sports
by Fame Mandu Team

Star Sports Named Official Broadcast Partner for Nepal Premier League 2024

The inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 is set to take cricketing excitement to new heights, and in a groundbreaking announcement, Star Sports has been named the Official Broadcast Partner for the tournament. This move marks a significant milestone for Nepalese cricket, bringing the Festival of Himalayas to millions of cricket fans across the globe.

NPL

Cricket Fever Goes Global

The partnership with Star Sports ensures that every thrilling moment of the NPL will reach audiences far and wide. Known for its top-tier sports coverage, Star Sports is set to showcase the tournament’s 32 matches, including the playoffs and the grand final, live from the historic Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu.

What This Means for NPL 2024

With Star Sports as the broadcast partner, the Nepal Premier League gains international recognition, placing it alongside other prestigious T20 leagues. Fans will get to experience world-class coverage, featuring:

  • Top International Stars: Shikhar Dhawan, Martin Guptill, James Neesham, Ravi Bopara, and many more.
  • Nepalese Cricket Icons: Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Bhurtel, Dipendra Singh Airee, and others.
  • Unmissable Action: A blend of high-octane cricket and spectacular performances.

A Festival for Cricket Fans

The NPL isn’t just about cricket—it’s a celebration of sports, culture, and community. With Star Sports on board, fans can enjoy premium commentary, in-depth analysis, and behind-the-scenes action, making them feel part of this historic event.

When and Where to Watch?

The Nepal Premier League 2024 kicks off on November 30 and runs through December 21. All matches will be broadcast live on Star Sports, with streaming options expected to be announced soon.

NPL 2024
by Fame Mandu Team

Nepal Premier League 2024: Full List of Star Players and Teams for the Inaugural Edition

The highly anticipated Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 is all set to make its grand debut, running from November 30 to December 21. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly waiting to witness the action-packed tournament, which promises a blend of international cricketing legends and Nepal’s homegrown talent. Here’s everything you need to know about the players, teams, and the excitement surrounding the first-ever NPL.

NPL

The Grand Beginning of NPL

The inaugural NPL features eight competitive teams battling for the championship title in a month-long cricket extravaganza. Despite facing logistical challenges, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has brought together an impressive lineup of players, including international stars and marquee local talents.

Nepal Premier League
Nepal Premier League || CAN

International Stars Joining the NPL

The NPL has managed to attract global cricket icons, adding significant star power to the tournament. Among the most notable signings are:

  • Shikhar Dhawan (India): The former Indian opener and IPL veteran will lead Karnali Yaks, alongside players like Chadwick Walton (West Indies), Babar Hayat (Hong Kong), and Hussain Talat (Pakistan).
  • Martin Guptill (New Zealand): Known for his explosive batting, Guptill will captain Biratnagar Kings.
  • James Neesham (New Zealand): The versatile all-rounder will spearhead the Janakpur Bolts.
  • Ravi Bopara (England): Renowned for his finishing ability and all-round skills, Bopara will lead the Chitwan Rhinos.

Rumors also suggest that CAN approached Australian star David Warner, showcasing the tournament’s ambition.

Nepalese Stars to Watch Out For

The NPL is a significant platform for Nepalese cricketers to shine on a global stage. Local heroes have been given marquee status and will be pivotal in their teams’ performances. Key players include:

Team Squads for NPL 2024

Here’s a detailed look at the teams and their players:

1. Biratnagar Kings

  • Marquee Player: Sandeep Lamichhane
  • Other Players: Martin Guptill, Chris Sole, Nicholas Kirton, Aqib Ilyas, and local talents like Lokesh Bam and Anil Kharel.
  • Head Coach: Kevin O’Brien

2. Chitwan Rhinos

  • Marquee Player: Kushal Malla
  • Other Players: Ravi Bopara, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Marchant de Lange, and Rijan Dhakal.
  • Head Coach: Umesh Patwal

3. Janakpur Bolts

4. Karnali Yaks

  • Marquee Player: Sompal Kami
  • Other Players: Shikhar Dhawan, Chadwick Walton, Babar Hayat, and Gulshan Kumar Jha.
  • Head Coach: Gyanendra Malla

5. Kathmandu Gurkhas

  • Marquee Player: Karan KC
  • Other Players: Gerhard Erasmus, Stevie Eskinazi, Dan Douthwaite, and Bhim Sharki.
  • Head Coach: Basanta Shahi

6. Lumbini Lions

7. Pokhara Avengers

  • Marquee Player: Kushal Bhurtel
  • Other Players: Anderson Phillip, Matt Critchley, Raymon Reifer, and Bas de Leede.

8. Sudurpaschim Royals

  • Marquee Player: Dipendra Singh Airee
  • Other Players: Scott Kuggeleijn, Rohan Mustafa, Saif Zaib, and Binod Bhandari.

Tournament Details

  • Venue: All 32 matches, including playoffs, will be held at the historic Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu.
  • Broadcast: While official streaming details are yet to be announced, reports suggest that Star Sports may broadcast the games, making NPL accessible to a global audience.

What Makes NPL Special?

The Nepal Premier League 2024 isn’t just a tournament; it’s a celebration of cricket’s growing popularity in Nepal. It’s a unique opportunity for local players to rub shoulders with international stars, learn from their experiences, and showcase their talent on a grand stage.

The NPL is poised to be a game-changer for Nepalese cricket, inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike.

Final Thoughts

The inaugural NPL 2024 is set to bring cricket fever to Nepal, uniting fans and players from all over the world. With a mix of seasoned international stars and rising local talent, this tournament is a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more updates as the action unfolds!

Shikhar Dhawan, The ICC Man of a tournament & second highest run scorer in IPL history is signed by Karnali Yaks.
by Fame Mandu Team

Shikhar Dhawan Joins Karnali Yaks for Nepal Premier League!

In a groundbreaking move for Nepal cricket, Indian cricket superstar Shikhar Dhawan has signed with the Karnali Yaks for the upcoming Nepal Premier League (NPL). Known for his aggressive playstyle and unwavering confidence, Dhawan brings an impressive resume: he’s the ICC Man of the Tournament and the second highest run-scorer in IPL history.

Dhawan’s addition to the NPL is set to elevate the league’s profile and provide an invaluable experience for local players and fans alike. This signing not only underscores NPL’s growing status in international cricket but also shines a spotlight on Nepal as an emerging hub for the sport.

Stay tuned for an action-packed season as Dhawan, affectionately known as “Gabbar,” takes the field to showcase his world-class talent right here in Nepal!

Nepal vs Scotland
by Fame Mandu Team

Nepal vs Scotland: Cricketing Rivals Face Off in a Crucial Clash

As part of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup (CWC) League 2, 2023-27, Nepal and Scotland are set to lock horns in Match 39 on October 29, 2024, at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas. Both teams have competed fiercely throughout the series and enter this game eager to improve their standings and secure valuable points.

Match Overview

  • Match: Nepal vs Scotland, Match 39
  • Date: October 29, 2024
  • Time: 09:00 PM IST
  • Venue: Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Dallas

Team Form and Rankings

In their last encounters, Nepal and Scotland displayed both strengths and areas for improvement. Nepal sits at sixth place on the points table, while Scotland holds fourth after both teams have played eight matches. Nepal is coming off a tight loss to the USA, where they fell short by three wickets. Their captain, Rohit Paudel, emerged as the top performer, gaining 130 fantasy points for his efforts. Scotland, in contrast, comes into this game with momentum, having registered a dominant 10-wicket win against the USA. Brad Currie led the charge with 148 fantasy points, underscoring his excellent form.

Pitch Report and Conditions

The Grand Prairie pitch is balanced, offering help for both batters and bowlers. The average first-innings score here is around 198 runs, and the forecast predicts cloudy skies with light rain, possibly adding swing for pacers. The conditions will be favorable for both pace and spin, which should keep the contest between bat and ball balanced and engaging.

Key Players to Watch

Nepal

  • Rohit Paudel: As Nepal’s top-order batter, Paudel has been instrumental with recent performances, including a 96-run knock. His consistency and leadership will be crucial for Nepal’s success.
  • Sandeep Lamichhane: Known for his wicket-taking abilities, Lamichhane has enjoyed success against Scotland, taking 8 wickets in their recent head-to-head encounters. His leg-break googlies will be essential on a pitch offering turn.
  • Kushal Bhurtel: An all-rounder with solid batting and leg-spin options, Bhurtel’s adaptability in the middle order and his ability to pick up key wickets make him an asset for Nepal.

Scotland

  • Brad Currie: A reliable left-arm pacer, Currie has taken 9 wickets in the last four games. His consistency in taking early breakthroughs could keep Nepal’s batting lineup under pressure.
  • George Munsey: With 255 runs in his last five games, Munsey’s aggressive style will be critical for Scotland’s success, especially in the powerplay.
  • Brandon McMullen: McMullen brings balance to Scotland with his all-round abilities. His recent performance includes six wickets, and he is also a dependable middle-order batter.

Dream11 Fantasy Picks

  • Wicket-Keepers: Anil Sah, Charlie Tear
  • Batters: Rohit Paudel, Kushal Bhurtel
  • All-Rounders: Brandon McMullen, Kushal Malla, Michael Leask
  • Bowlers: Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sompal Kami, Mark Watt
  • Captain: Kushal Bhurtel
  • Vice-Captain: Charlie Tear

Key Battles to Watch

  1. Sandeep Lamichhane vs George Munsey: This battle will test Munsey’s aggressive batting against Lamichhane’s ability to extract spin. A breakthrough from Lamichhane could tilt the momentum toward Nepal.
  2. Brad Currie vs Nepal’s Top Order: With the potential for swing in cloudy conditions, Currie’s ability to break partnerships early will be key for Scotland.
  3. Middle-Order Showdown: Both teams have solid middle-order lineups, and a standout performance could be decisive in this closely matched game.
Nepal vs Scotland
Nepal vs Scotland

Prediction

With both teams having shared a fierce rivalry in recent encounters, Match 39 promises to be an exciting game. While Scotland has a slight upper hand with their recent victory, Nepal’s batting depth and spin strength make them a formidable opponent. Fans can expect a tight contest, with the team that best adapts to the conditions likely to emerge victorious.

Nepal Premier League
by Fame Mandu Team

Nepal Premier League: A New Start for Cricket in Nepal

Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 in Nepal is poised to be a significant milestone for cricket in the country. Taking place from November 30 to December 21, this fresh competition seeks to elevate the status of Nepalese cricket. Under the management of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), the NPL will feature eight competing teams vying for the championship in a professional T20 cricket league.

Nepal Premier League
Nepal Premier League

Why the NPL Matters

Cricket’s popularity has been increasing steadily in Nepal over the years, and the nation has achieved certain accomplishments on the global platform. Nevertheless, there was a pressing need to enhance domestic cricket in Nepal, and the NPL is considered a means to provide local players with greater opportunities to showcase their skills. Previous tournaments like the Nepal T20 League encountered issues, such as match-fixing scandals, which had a negative impact on the sport’s reputation. The NPL has been designed to prioritize transparency and organization, drawing lessons from past errors and ensuring a more promising future for cricket in Nepal.

Teams in the Nepal Premier League

The NPL will have eight franchise teams, each representing different cities and regions of Nepal. These teams are:

  1. Biratnagar
  2. Chitwan
  3. Janakpur
  4. Karnali
  5. Kathmandu
  6. Lumbini
  7. Pokhara
  8. Sudurpashim

Each of these teams was bought by different companies, with Pokhara being the most expensive, bought for NRS 3.57 crore. The team from Karnali was the cheapest, bought for NRS 1.11 crore​.

How the Tournament Works

In the NPL, all teams will face each other in a round-robin style during the league stage. The top-performing teams will advance to the playoffs, and the tournament will culminate with a final match to determine the champion. All matches will take place at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur​.

A Chance for Local Players

The NPL’s primary objective is to provide young and talented Nepalese players with an opportunity to compete at a higher level. Unlike previous leagues, the emphasis is now on fostering local talent development. The NPL aims to achieve this by increasing players’ exposure. While international players will also be included in the teams, their selection will be done cautiously to ensure ample opportunities for local players to showcase their skills.

Fixing Past Issues

Nepalese cricket is in need of a new beginning, which the NPL aims to provide. Previous events such as the Nepal T20 League were marred by issues of match-fixing and non-payment. The Cricket Association of Nepal has taken those lessons to heart and is diligently working to ensure that the NPL remains untainted by such troubles. Transparency, fairness, and the establishment of trust among players, fans, and sponsors are the league’s primary objectives.

Looking to the Future

The NPL goes beyond being a mere tournament; it forms an integral part of a larger strategy to enhance cricket in Nepal. The league is anticipated to garner global interest, resulting in increased financial resources and providing Nepalese players with an opportunity to enhance their abilities by competing against players from diverse nations. The ultimate objective is to establish the NPL as a recurring spectacle and contribute towards elevating Nepal’s status as a formidable cricketing nation.

In addition, the league’s logo, featuring symbols like the khukuri and Mount Everest, reflects Nepal’s rich cultural heritage and its ambition to achieve great things in cricket​.

Conclusion

The Nepal Premier League 2024 is a big step forward for cricket in Nepal. With its focus on local talent, better organization, and a strong vision for the future, the NPL has the potential to lift Nepalese cricket to new heights. Fans across the country are excited to see their favorite teams and players compete in this new, exciting tournament.