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Faf du Plessis set for NPL debut as Nepal board announces schedule for 2025 season

Akshita Patel

NPL 2025 season to begin this month [Source:@OfficialNPLT20/X.com]NPL 2025 season to begin this month [Source:@OfficialNPLT20/X.com]

The second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) is set to bring back high-voltage T20 action to Nepal, as the cricket board officially announced the schedule for the 2025 edition. This year's NPL will start on November 17 and continue for almost a month, ending with a grand finale on December 13.

Building on the success of its debut season last year, NPL Season 2 promises more competition, international star power, and greater fan engagement. 

The league will feature eight teams representing different regions of Nepal, Janakpur Bolts, Biratnagar Kings, Chitwan Rhinos, Karnali Yaks, Kathmandu Gorkhas, Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, and Sudurpaschim Royals.

NPL 2025 to begin on November 17

Each team will play the others twice in the league stage, making for a total of 28 league matches before the top four sides progress to the playoffs.

The knockout phase will include two qualifiers and an eliminator, leading up to the final on Saturday, December 13. 

NPL 2025 schedule [Source: @OfficialNPLT20/X.com]NPL 2025 schedule [Source: @OfficialNPLT20/X.com]

Defending champions Janakpur Bolts, led by Nepal’s stylish opener Aasif Sheikh, will look to retain their crown after a dominant first season. 

In the 2024 final, the Bolts had chased down a 185-run target set by Sudurpaschim Royals with five wickets in hand, sealing the title in just 19.2 overs.

However, this year's competition is likely to be far tougher because teams have strengthened their squads and added global experience. 

The biggest headline so far has come from the Biratnagar Kings, who have pulled off a stunning signing by bringing in former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis. Faf is expected to add both stability and star power to the Kings, who finished sixth in the first season.

With a total of 32 matches scheduled, 28 in the league stage and 4 in the playoffs, the NPL Season 2 will follow a format similar to the IPL.