Match Preview: Kathmandu Gorkhas vs Biratnagar Kings – Nepal Premier League 2025

Match 8
Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
Date: November 22, 2025
Time: 03:15 PM IST / 09:45 AM GMT

Match Overview

The eighth match of the Nepal Premier League 2025 will see Kathmandu Gorkhas take on Biratnagar Kings at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. This match is a key fixture in the league's mid-way stage, with both teams vying to strengthen their positions in the standings.

Kathmandu Gorkhas sit at the top of the table with one win and one loss so far, while Biratnagar Kings are in fifth place with a single win to their name. However, Biratnagar has made a strong statement with a 53-run victory in their last match, scoring 220/6, whereas Kathmandu struggled in their previous contest, scoring just 118 and losing by 29 runs.

Current Form

Kathmandu Gorkhas

• Position: First on the points table
• Top Run Scorer: Aakash Tripathi (73 runs)
• Top Wicket Taker: Milind Kumar (5 wickets)
• Recent Performance: Lost to Sudurpaschim Royals by 29 runs
• Strengths: Strong bowling attack led by Milind Kumar and Rashid Khan, with a decent batting lineup including Aakash Tripathi and Ben Charlesworth.

Biratnagar Kings

• Position: Fifth on the points table
• Top Run Scorer: Lokesh Bam (72 runs)
• Top Wicket Taker: Sandeep Lamichhane (2 wickets)
• Recent Performance: Won by 53 runs against Pokhara Avengers, scoring 220/6
• Strengths: Explosive batting, led by George Munsey and Martin Guptill, and a balanced bowling unit with Sandeep Lamichhane and Marchant de Lange.

Head-to-Head

• The two sides have met once in NPL history, with Kathmandu Gorkhas winning by one wicket.
• However, Biratnagar Kings have shown improved form in this tournament, and their recent performance could give them the edge.

Weather Report

The weather forecast for the match is promising, with sunny conditions expected. The temperature is predicted to be around 20°C, and there is no chance of rain, ensuring a full game under ideal conditions.

Toss Prediction

The pitch at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground has been batting-friendly so far in the 2025 season. The team winning the toss is expected to opt to bat first, aiming to post a formidable total.

Predicted Toss Winner: Kathmandu Gorkhas

Key Players to Watch

Batters

• George Munsey (Biratnagar Kings): The Scottish all-rounder is expected to anchor the innings and provide the firepower needed to post a massive score.
• Martin Guptill (Biratnagar Kings): A seasoned campaigner, Guptill brings experience and big-hitting ability.
• Ben Charlesworth (Kathmandu Gorkhas): Formed well in the previous game, scoring 46 off 23 balls. He could be crucial for Kathmandu's innings.

Bowlers

• Sandeep Lamichhane (Biratnagar Kings): The leg-spinner has been economical and effective. His ability to take wickets could be vital.
• Karan KC (Kathmandu Gorkhas): Took four wickets in the last match and is expected to play a key role.
• Milind Kumar (Kathmandu Gorkhas): A wicket-taking machine in this tournament, with five wickets in two games.

Match Predictions

• Predicted Match Winner: Biratnagar Kings
• Top Batter Runs: George Munsey (Biratnagar Kings), Ben Charlesworth (Kathmandu Gorkhas)
• Top Bowler Wickets: Sandeep Lamichhane (Biratnagar Kings), Karan KC (Kathmandu Gorkhas)
• Most Sixes: George Munsey (Biratnagar Kings), John Simpson (Kathmandu Gorkhas)
• Player of the Match: George Munsey (Biratnagar Kings)
• Team Scores:
  • Biratnagar Kings: 180+
  • Kathmandu Gorkhas: 150+
• Match Handicap: Biratnagar Kings

What to Watch For

• Biratnagar Kings' explosive batting lineup, particularly George Munsey and Martin Guptill, will be key to setting a challenging total.
• Kathmandu Gorkhas' spin attack, led by Milind Kumar and Rashid Khan, will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Kings' middle order.
• Captaincy decisions will be crucial, especially in the fielding phase, as the game could swing either way with smart tactics.
• Weather and pitch behavior will be closely monitored, as both teams have the potential to dominate depending on conditions.

Final Verdict

Despite Kathmandu Gorkhas' superior league position, Biratnagar Kings are in better form and have the firepower to win this match. With George Munsey in their lineup and a strong batting unit, the Kings are expected to outperform the Gorkhas and claim the three points.

Prediction: Biratnagar Kings by 10-15 runs
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