Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Defending champions Lumbini Lions will look to maintain their unbeaten run when they take on 2024 champions Janakpur Bolts in the first match of Thursday’s double-header in the Nepal Premier League (NPL).
The second match will see Kathmandu Gorkhas face Biratnagar Kings, who will be eyeing a third straight win in the league.
Lumbini Lions vs Janakpur Bolts
Lumbini are currently at the top of the eight-team standings with five points from three matches. They are also the only undefeated side in the NPL so far.
Although their match with Chitwan Rhinos was washed away due to a wet outfield, they have registered dominant victories against Sudurpaschim Royals and Pokhara Avengers.
Janakpur, meanwhile, have collected four points from four matches. They began their campaign with a 19-run loss to Karnali Yaks but bounced back with an eight-wicket victory over Kathmandu Gorkhas and a nine-run win over Pokhara Avengers. However, they suffered a narrow two-run defeat against Biratnagar Kings on Tuesday.
The two sides have met twice in previous NPL editions, with each winning once. Janakpur edged Lumbini by one run in the inaugural edition in 2024, while Lumbini registered a four-wicket victory in 2025.
Kathmandu Gorkhas vs Biratnagar Kings
The evening fixture will see Kathmandu Gorkhas attempt to build on their recent victory over Karnali Yaks when they face Biratnagar Kings.
Kathmandu are currently seventh on the table with two points from as many matches.
After losing their opening game against Janakpur by eight wickets, they bounced back with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Karnali. They chased down a target of 181 with two balls to spare. They, however, suffered an eight-wicket defeat against Janakpur Bolts in their opening fixture.
Biratnagar, on the other hand, are second with four points from four matches. Although they began their 2026 campaign with consecutive defeats against Chitwan Rhinos and Karnali Yaks, they have since turned things around with victories over Sudurpaschim Royals and Janakpur Bolts.
Their 35-run victory over Sudurpaschim came in a rain-shortened five-over contest. They followed it up with a more competitive two-run win over Janakpur when they defended a total of 174-3 on Tuesday.
The head-to-head record between the two sides is evenly balanced, with each winning once in their previous two NPL meetings. Kathmandu registered a one-wicket victory in 2024, while Biratnagar secured a five-wicket victory in 2025. Thursday’s winner will therefore take the lead in their rivalry.
