The Nepal Premier League 2026 (NPL) is set to bring another exciting season of franchise cricket to Nepal. Eight teams will be competing for the championship title at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. The tournament started on October 26 and is scheduled to end on November 21, 2026. Fans are closely following the NPL 2026 schedule, team performances, and the race for the playoffs as defending champions Lumbini Lions seek to defend their title.
This third edition of the league introduces the Decision Review System (DRS), which is a major development in Nepal’s rapidly developing domestic cricket competition. The league also provides local players with an opportunity to play in a high-profile tournament alongside experienced international cricketers.
Nepal Premier League 2026: Tournament Overview
The Nepal Premier League, commonly referred to as NPL, is a franchise-based T20 cricket competition organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). It brings together eight teams from different regions and cities, providing a platform for domestic talent and international competition.
Below are some of the key details regarding the 2026 season:
- Tournament: Nepal Premier League 2026
- Edition: Third
- Format: Twenty20 franchise cricket
- Start Date: October 26, 2026
- Final: November 21, 2026
- Participating Teams: Eight
- Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
- Defending Champions: Lumbini Lions
- Official Organizer: Cricket Association of Nepal
The tournament includes 28 league-stage matches followed by four playoff matches. Supporters can visit the official fixtures and results page for up-to-date match information.
Nepal Premier League Teams in 2026
Eight franchises are competing for the championship during this season. Each franchise must maintain consistency throughout the league stage in order to increase their chances of qualifying for the playoffs.
1. Biratnagar Kings
Biratnagar Kings represent the Biratnagar region. They will attempt to combine reliable batting, disciplined bowling, and effective fielding to challenge other franchises.
Biratnagar Kings Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Sandeep Lamichhane (C) | Captain / Bowler |
| Lokesh Bam | Wicketkeeper |
| Dilsad Ali | Wicketkeeper |
| Sujan Thapaliya | Batsman |
| Andre Russell | All-rounder |
| Charith Asalanka | Batsman |
| Angelo Mathews | All-rounder |
| Shubham Ranjane | All-rounder |
| Basir Ahamad | All-rounder |
| Narayan Joshi | All-rounder |
| Pratish GC | Bowler |
| Rupesh Kumar Singh | All-rounder |
| Naren Saud | Bowler |
| Pratik Shrestha | Batsman |
| Imran Sheikh | All-rounder |
| Subash Bhandari | All-rounder |
| Aprajit Poudel | Bowler |
2. Chitwan Rhinos
Chitwan Rhinos represent the Chitwan region. Their campaign will rely on establishing partnerships, taking wickets at crucial times, and consistently performing well throughout the competition.
Chitwan Rhinos Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Kushal Malla (C) | Captain / All-rounder |
| Arjun Saud | Wicketkeeper |
| Bipin Rawal | Wicketkeeper |
| Kamil Mishara | Wicketkeeper |
| Deepak Bohara | Batsman |
| Dev Khanal | Batsman |
| Dawid Malan | Batsman |
| Ravi Bopara | All-rounder |
| Sikandar Raza | All-rounder |
| Bibek Kumar Yadav | All-rounder |
| Dan Mousley | All-rounder |
| Tom Taylor | All-rounder |
| Mohammad Nawaz | All-rounder |
| Ashok Dhami | All-rounder |
| Rijan Dhakal | Bowler |
| Kamal Singh Airee | Bowler |
| Mousom Dhakal | Bowler |
| Ranjeet Kumar | Bowler |
| Kaleem Sana | Bowler |
| Hasan Ali | Bowler |
| Usama Mir | Bowler |
| Gautam KC | Bowler |
3. Janakpur Bolts
Janakpur Bolts won the first-ever Nepal Premier League championship in 2024. However, after finishing last in the standings in 2025, the franchise will be looking to improve their performance and once again compete for the title.
Janakpur Bolts Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Harmeet Singh (C) | Captain / All-rounder |
| Anil Kumar Sah | Wicketkeeper |
| Kusal Perera | Wicketkeeper |
| Santosh Karki | Batsman |
| Rit Gautam | Batsman |
| Trit Raj Das | Batsman |
| Mayan Yadav | Batsman |
| Bishal Shusling | Batsman |
| Bishal Patel | All-rounder |
| Moeen Ali | All-rounder |
| Abhisekh Tiwari | All-rounder |
| Iftikhar Ahmed | All-rounder |
| James Neesham | All-rounder |
| Aaditya Mahata | Bowler |
| Bikash Aagri | Bowler |
| Amar Singh Rautela | Bowler |
| Lalit Rajbanshi | Bowler |
| Hunain Shah | Bowler |
| Ashutosh Pandey | Batsman |
4. Karnali Yaks
Karnali Yaks represent the Karnali region. Strong teamwork and consistent results will be essential if the franchise wants to secure a spot among the top four teams.
Karnali Yaks Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Sompal Kami (C) | Captain / All-rounder |
| Deepak Dumre | Wicketkeeper |
| Akbar Ali | Wicketkeeper |
| David Miller | Batsman |
| Sahibzada Farhan | Batsman |
| Ariful Islam | Batsman |
| Sachin Sharma | Batsman |
| Hikmat Shahi | Batsman |
| Shubh Kansakar | Batsman |
| Hussain Talat | All-rounder |
| Gulshan Jha | All-rounder |
| Diwan Pun | All-rounder |
| Pawan Sarraf | All-rounder |
| Mark Watt | Bowler |
| Bipin Sharma | Bowler |
| Unish Bikram Singh | Bowler |
| Nandan Yadav | Bowler |
| Surya Tamang | Bowler |
| Dipendra Rawat | Bowler |
| Yuvraj Khatri | Bowler |
5. Kathmandu Gorkhas
Kathmandu Gorkhas represent Nepal’s capital region. The franchise will strive to utilize their familiarity with their home country and prepare adequately to compete against the other seven sides.
Kathmandu Gorkhas Squads
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Karan KC (C) | Captain / All-rounder |
| KS Bharat | Wicketkeeper |
| Sahil Patel | Wicketkeeper |
| David Warner | Batsman |
| Bhim Sharki | Batsman |
| Suryanshu Koirala | Batsman |
| Sonu Devkota | Batsman |
| Sahan Arachchige | All-rounder |
| Santosh Yadav | All-rounder |
| Prasiddha Jaishi | All-rounder |
| Krishna Paudel | All-rounder |
| Mohammad Aadil Alam | Bowler |
| Rashid Khan | Bowler |
| Shahab Alam | Bowler |
| Dev Shah | Bowler |
| Dayanand Mandal | Bowler |
6. Lumbini Lions
Lumbini Lions enter NPL 2026 as defending champions after winning the 2025 title under Rohit Paudel. They will face the challenge of continuing their winning momentum while competing against teams who want to take the trophy away from them.
Lumbini Lions Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Rohit Kumar Paudel (C) | Captain / All-rounder |
| Niroshan Dickwella | Wicketkeeper |
| Aasif Sheikh | Wicketkeeper |
| Dilip Nath | Wicketkeeper |
| Sundeep Jora | Batsman |
| Aakash Tripathi | Batsman |
| Arniko Yadav | Batsman |
| D’Arcy Short | All-rounder |
| Shadley van Schalkwyk | All-rounder |
| Shamim Hossain | All-rounder |
| Dinesh Adhikari | All-rounder |
| Sher Malla | Bowler |
| Abhishesh Gautam | Bowler |
| Tilak Bhandari | Bowler |
| Kishore Mahato | Bowler |
| Ajay Chauhan | Bowler |
| Ruben Trumpelmann | Bowler |
| Durgesh Gupta | Bowler |
7. Pokhara Avengers
Pokhara Avengers represent Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most well-known tourism destinations. The franchise will strive to convert their preparation and individual talent into the consistent performances required to reach the playoffs.
Pokhara Avengers Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Kushal Bhurtel (C) | Captain / Batsman |
| Arjun Kumal | Batsman |
| Kiran Thagunna | Batsman |
| Bibek Rana Magar | Batsman |
| Arjun Gharti | Wicketkeeper |
| Dinesh Kharel | All-rounder |
| Shakib Al Hasan | All-rounder |
| Chamika Karunaratne | All-rounder |
| Mahedi Hasan | All-rounder |
| Mohammad Saifuddin | All-rounder |
| Dhananjaya Lakshan | All-rounder |
| Sunny BK | All-rounder |
| Bipin Khatri | Bowler |
| Pratik Pokharel | Bowler |
| Bipin Acharya | Bowler |
| Sudip Aryal | Bowler |
| Sagar Dhakal | Bowler |
| Aakash Chand | Bowler |
8. Sudurpaschim Royals
Sudurpaschim Royals have been one of the most successful franchises in the early history of the league. They finished as runners-up in both 2024 and 2025, making another title challenge an important storyline in the current season.
Sudurpaschim Royals Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Dipendra Singh Airee (C) | Captain / All-rounder |
| Binod Bhandari | Wicketkeeper |
| Tek Rawat | Wicketkeeper |
| Dipak Bohara | Batsman |
| Ishan Pandey | Batsman |
| Sherfane Rutherford | Batsman |
| Aarif Sheikh | All-rounder |
| Brandon McMullen | All-rounder |
| Scott Kuggeleijn | All-rounder |
| Saif Zaib | All-rounder |
| Fabian Allen | All-rounder |
| Ayub Chand | All-rounder |
| Abinash Bohara | Bowler |
| Hemant Dhami | Bowler |
| Hikmat Mahara | Bowler |
| Anil Kharel | Bowler |
| Milan Bohara | Bowler |
| Sachin Bhatt | Bowler |
NPL 2026 Schedule and Important Dates
The NPL 2026 fixtures run from October 26 through the scheduled final on November 21. All matches are being played at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
Some upcoming league-stage fixtures include:
- October 31: Lumbini Lions vs Chitwan Rhinos
- October 31: Sudurpaschim Royals vs Biratnagar Kings
- November 1: Janakpur Bolts vs Pokhara Avengers
- November 2: Kathmandu Gorkhas vs Karnali Yaks
- November 3: Biratnagar Kings vs Janakpur Bolts
- November 5: Lumbini Lions vs Janakpur Bolts
- November 7: Kathmandu Gorkhas vs Lumbini Lions
- November 15: Last scheduled league-stage matches
The playoffs are scheduled to commence with Qualifier 1 on November 17, followed by the Eliminator on November 18 and Qualifier 2 on November 19. The final is scheduled for November 21.
For the complete NPL 2026 schedule, match times, and confirmed results, please visit the official NPL fixtures page.
Nepal Premier League Results and Points Table
The NPL points table is crucial for tracking each franchise’s progress. Teams are ranked based on competition points, with net run rate being used to separate teams that are level on points according to the tournament rules.
A standard victory awards two points, while a match abandoned without a result generally awards one point to each team, subject to the official playing conditions.
When following Nepal Premier League results, fans should consider more than just victories and defeats. Net run rate can become particularly important when multiple teams conclude the league stage with equal points.
The primary statistics to monitor are matches played, victories, defeats, total points, and net run rate. As the tournament progresses, these numbers will assist in determining which four teams qualify for the playoffs.
Readers should refer to the official standings for the most current numbers rather than relying on outdated tables.
What is new in Nepal Premier League 2026?
One of the most significant developments this season is the introduction of the Decision Review System (DRS). The system allows teams to challenge certain on-field umpiring decisions based on the applicable playing conditions.
The use of Hawk-Eye technology adds an extra layer of review to the competition and represents advancements in match officiating within the tournament.
The 2026 season has also increased the maximum number of overseas players allowed per squad to eight, while the playing XI must contain at least seven Nepali cricketers. This arrangement provides opportunities for international experience while ensuring that domestic players retain a substantial role.
These developments could make the competition more strategically interesting and provide Nepali cricketers with additional opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.
Where to Watch NPL Live Score and Matches
Fans seeking an NPL live score can visit the official Nepal Premier League website for match updates, fixtures, results, and available live coverage information.
Broadcasting rights and streaming availability may vary by country. Viewers should visit the official live page to identify the authorized broadcaster or streaming service for their area.
For fans in Nepal and abroad, official digital coverage can make it simpler to follow matches even if they cannot attend them in person at the stadium.
If you want to watch live games visit Himalayan Television and Net tv OTP
Please visit Nepal Premier League official website for the latest information.
Why Nepal Premier League Matters for Nepal Cricket
The Nepal Premier League is much more than a competition for a trophy. It provides domestic cricketers with a platform to perform under pressure, compete against experienced professionals, and be exposed to various styles of play.
Franchise cricket can also assist in attracting sponsors, developing regional rivalries, and increasing public interest in the sport. Increased visibility may lead to opportunities for players, coaches, match officials, and sports-related businesses.
For Nepal cricket, the long-term advantages will depend on consistently organizing tournaments, investing in player development, and providing opportunities for talented cricketers to advance to higher levels of the game.
The introduction of improved review technology and the participation of overseas professionals are positive developments; however, the ultimate value of the competition will lie in how effectively it supports local talent.
FAQ
When does Nepal Premier League 2026 end?
The tournament final is scheduled for November 21, 2026.
How many teams are playing in NPL 2026?
Eight teams are participating: Biratnagar Kings, Chitwan Rhinos, Janakpur Bolts, Karnali Yaks, Kathmandu Gorkhas, Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, and Sudurpaschim Royals.
Who are the defending champions?
Lumbini Lions are the defending champions after winning the 2025 edition.
Where is NPL 2026 being played?
All matches are scheduled at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Nepal.
Where can I find the NPL 2026 points table?
Please visit the official Nepal Premier League website for the latest standings, results, and fixtures.
Conclusion
The Nepal Premier League 2026 is an integral component of Nepal’s expanding franchise cricket scene. With eight teams, a competitive playoff format, and the implementation of DRS, fans have numerous reasons to follow the tournament through its scheduled final on November 21.
As the league progresses, some of the key questions include which teams will qualify for playoff spots, whether Lumbini Lions can defend their title, and which players will produce the season’s standout performances. Following official fixtures and results will assist supporters in remaining informed throughout the competition.
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