Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: High-flying Biratnagar Kings will look to extend their unbeaten streak in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) when they face Chitwan Rhinos at the TU International Cricket Ground on Wednesday.
Biratnagar has been one of the most dominant sides of the tournament so far, winning all three of their matches with clinical performances across batting, bowling and fielding. Chitwan, meanwhile, have had a mixed start—winning one of their two matches.
In last year’s NPL, Biratnagar defeated Chitwan by 51 runs in the league stage. However, Chitwan secured a playoff berth, while Biratnagar finished sixth.
This season, however, Biratnagar appear transformed. A revamped squad has showcased consistency in all departments. They set the league alight by posting the highest-ever NPL total of 220 runs in their opening match against Pokahra Avengers, which they won by 53 runs. The Kings then cruised past Kathmandu by five wickets in their second game, and edged defending champions Janakpur Bolts by nine runs in a tense third outing.
Chitwan Rhinos, on the other hand, have lacked consistency. They began their campaign with a four-wicket victory over Karnali, but faltered in their second match, losing to Lumbini by six wickets after failing to defend a modest total.
For Chitwan, Wednesday’s clash provides a chance to reset their campaign and hand Biratnagar their first defeat of the season. Biratnagar, on the other hand, will aim to maintain the momentum and strengthen their position at the top of the table.
Biratnagar Kings Squad:
Sandeep Lamichhane (Captain), Lokesh Bam, Martin Guptill, George Munsey, Naren Bhatta, Basir Ahamad, Narayan Joshi, Shubham Ranjane, Pratis GC, Marchant de Lange, Surya Tamang, Sahil Patel, Sam Heazlett, Shankar Rana, Faf du Plessis, Sharwan Kisku, Subash Bhandari
Chitwan Rhinos Squad:
Kushal Malla (captain), Sohail Tanvir, Ravi Bopara, Dawid Malan, Saif Zaib, Amar Routela, Kamal Airee, Bipin Rawal, Rijan Dhakal, Alpesh Ramjani, Gautam KC, Bipin Acharya, Arjun Saud, Dev Khanal, Saugat Dhakal, Deepak Bohara, Ranjit Kumar
