Nepal Premier League 2025 Kicks Off Under Floodlights, Ushering a New Era in Nepali Cricket
Kathmandu – The second edition of the Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL) officially begins today (November 17, 2025) at 4 pm, promising to take Nepali cricket to unprecedented heights. For the first time in the country’s cricketing history, matches will be played under floodlights, with proper parapet seating arranged for spectators, turning long-held dreams into reality.
Nepali cricketers will now experience the thrill of playing day–night matches, while fans enjoy the comfort and excitement of watching live action from the stands. With 23 of the 32 scheduled matches set to be played under lights, the 2025 NPL marks a historic step forward for cricket in Nepal, blending professional infrastructure with increased fan engagement.
Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) officials, players, and fans gathered with anticipation as the new facilities were officially handed over this Sunday, signaling readiness for the landmark tournament. The new setup includes state-of-the-art floodlights and proper parapet seating, ensuring spectators can watch games in comfort while players compete in a professional environment reminiscent of international standards.
Defending champions Janakpur Bolts are set to kick off the tournament on Monday, facing Kathmandu Gorkhas under the newly installed lights. The Bolts will be looking to continue their winning streak and retain their title, while all eight franchise teams gear up to showcase top-level cricket. The franchises competing in this edition include Janakpur Bolts, Kathmandu Gorkhas, Pokhara Avengers, Biratnagar Titans, Chitwan Rhinos, Lalitpur Legends, Bhaktapur Warriors, and Birgunj Challengers.
The NPL, sponsored by Siddhartha Bank, has grown significantly since its inception, not only in terms of player participation and fan engagement but also in terms of the overall professionalism and infrastructure of the tournament. The introduction of day–night matches represents a milestone that has long been awaited by cricket enthusiasts across the country. Many supporters see this as an essential step in promoting cricket in Nepal, attracting more viewership and creating opportunities for young talents to shine under international-standard conditions.
CAN officials expressed their excitement over the tournament’s launch, emphasizing that the floodlights and seating arrangements are part of a broader effort to modernize cricket infrastructure in Nepal. “This is not just a tournament; it is a historic moment for Nepali cricket. For the first time, fans and players alike can experience professional-level day–night matches in our country,” said a CAN spokesperson.
With anticipation running high and fans ready to witness cricket history in the making, the second edition of the Siddhartha Bank NPL promises thrilling matches, outstanding performances, and a fresh chapter in Nepal’s sporting journey. As floodlights illuminate the field for the first time, Nepali cricket steps confidently into a new era.
