Chitwan Rhinos vs Lumbini Lions Match Preview – Nepal Premier League 2025

Match Details

Teams: Chitwan Rhinos vs Lumbini Lions
Date: November 20, 2025
Time: 10:15 GMT (04:00 PM local time)
Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
Tournament: Nepal Premier League 2025

Match Overview

The fifth match of the Nepal Premier League 2025 will see Chitwan Rhinos take on Lumbini Lions at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. This encounter is highly anticipated, as both teams look to make a strong statement in their respective campaigns.

Chitwan Rhinos, coming off a four-wicket victory over Karnali Yaks in their opening match, are expected to continue their strong form. Lumbini Lions, on the other hand, are eager to bounce back after a dismal 2024 season where they managed just one win.

Team Form

• Chitwan Rhinos: Started the 2025 season with a win and finished third in the previous edition of the NPL.
• Lumbini Lions: Struggled in 2024, winning only one of their last five T20 matches.

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Lumbini Lions hold a 10-0 lead in the head-to-head record against Chitwan Rhinos. However, recent performances have favored the Rhinos, making this a crucial match for both teams.

Key Players to Watch

Chitwan Rhinos

• Ravi Bopara: The experienced all-rounder who scored a match-winning fifty in the first game of 2025. His ability to anchor the innings and contribute with the ball makes him a key player.
• Saif Zaib: A promising all-rounder who made a strong debut with the bat and ball. Expected to play a pivotal role in this match.

Lumbini Lions

• Rohit Paudel: The team's captain and leading run-scorer in the 2024 NPL, Paudel is expected to lead from the front with the bat and support the bowlers with crucial wickets.
• JJ Smit: A new signing for the Lions, Smit brings in form and experience, making him a vital asset with the ball.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The pitch at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground is expected to be balanced, offering fair opportunities to both batsmen and bowlers. Recent trends have shown teams batting first have had the upper hand.

The weather forecast is favorable with clear skies and no rain expected. The temperature is expected to be around 18°C at the start and drop to 16°C by the end of the game.

Toss Prediction

With the pitch offering a fair contest, it is likely that the captain winning the toss will choose to bat first, aiming to set a competitive total in the early overs.

Match Prediction

Chitwan Rhinos are the favorites to win this match due to their strong start to the 2025 season and better overall form. Their balanced squad and recent performances give them an edge over the struggling Lumbini Lions.

• Chitwan Rhinos to win: 1.65 (Parimatch)
• Lumbini Lions to win: 2.09 (Parimatch)

Final Verdict

While Lumbini Lions have the historical advantage, Chitwan Rhinos are in better form and have a more balanced squad at the moment. With a favorable toss decision and strong performances from key players like Ravi Bopara and Saif Zaib, the Rhinos are expected to emerge victorious in this crucial encounter.

Prediction: Chitwan Rhinos to win by 6–8 wickets.
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