As the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) gets closer, Biratnagar Kings have shared the names of the players they are keeping for this season. Known for their exciting matches and strong support from fans, the Kings are getting ready for a big season ahead.
They have kept six important players: Sandeep Lamichhane, Lokesh Bam, Pratish GC, Basir Ahmad, Naren Bhatta, and Subash Bhandari.
With a mix of experienced players and young talent, Biratnagar Kings look ready to fight for the trophy in NPL Season 2.
Official Retained Players List
On July 5, 2025, Biratnagar Kings have officially announced their six key players list through their Facebook page, who are retained for the NPL season 2.
Following is the list of retained players from Kathmandu Gurkhas for the NPL 2025 season with their corresponding role:
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Sandeep Lamichhane | Bowler (Right-arm leg-spinner, Right-handed batsman) |
| Lokesh Bam | Wicket-keeper Batsman (Right-handed batsman) |
| Pratis GC | Bowler (Left-arm medium-fast bowler, Right-handed batsman) |
| Basir Ahmad | All-rounder (Left-arm medium, Left-handed batsman) |
| Naren Bhatta | All-rounder(Right-handed batsman, Right-arm off spinner) |
| Subash Bhandari | Bowler (Right-arm offbreak, Right-handed batsman) |
Biratnagar Kings have formed a strong and balanced squad for NPL 2025. Pratis GC, Basir Ahmad, and Naren Bhatta are skilled all-rounders who can help the team in both batting and bowling, adding flexibility to the lineup. Their ability to perform in multiple areas will be important in tough match situations.
Sandeep Lamichhane, the captain, will lead the bowling attack with his sharp leg-spin, supported by Subash Bhandari’s offbreaks. Lokesh Bam will serve as the wicket-keeper and also support the batting. With this mix, the Kings look ready to compete strongly this season.
Reason Behind Retention
Biratnagar Kings have retained a strong core of players to build a balanced and competitive team for NPL 2025. By keeping reliable all-rounders, key bowlers, and a steady wicketkeeper, they aim to create a solid foundation for the upcoming season.
The main reasons behind their retention choices are:
- Keep useful all-rounders like Pratis GC, Basir Ahmad, and Naren Bhatta who can help with both batting and bowling.
- Build a strong bowling attack with experienced bowlers like Sandeep Lamichhane, Subash Bhandari, and Naren Bhatta to handle various match conditions.
- Retain Lokesh Bam as a steady wicket-keeper who can also support the batting lineup.
- Maintain team chemistry by keeping players who played well and showed consistency last season.
- Mix youth and experience to ensure the team has energy, skill, and match awareness for the new season.
Biratnagar Kings’ NPL 2024 Season Review
| Match # | Opponent | Result | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Janakpur Bolts | Lost | By 8 wickets |
| 2 | Sudur Paschim Royals | Lost | By 90 runs |
| 3 | Lumbini Lions | Won | By 2 wickets |
| 4 | Karnali Yaks | Lost | By 7 runs |
| 5 | Pokhara Avengers | Tied | Lost in Super Over |
| 6 | Chitwan Rhinos | Won | By 51 runs |
| 7 | Kathmandu Gurkhas | Lost | By 1 wicket |
Biratnagar Kings had a challenging NPL 2024 season, managing 2 wins out of 7 league matches. They impressed with a thrilling victory against Lumbini Lions and a dominant win over Chitwan Rhinos, showing their potential when things clicked.
However, they faced several tough defeats, including close matches against Kathmandu Gurkhas and Karnali Yaks, and a tied game against Pokhara Avengers that was lost in the Super Over. While the team had flashes of brilliance, especially with the ball, inconsistency cost them crucial points. Still, they showed spirit and room to grow in the next season.
What’s Next in 2025?
After a mixed performance in NPL 2024, Biratnagar Kings will be looking to bounce back stronger in the upcoming season. With key players like Sandeep Lamichhane continuing as captain and the core group retained, the team is aiming for better consistency and match-winning momentum.
They are expected to strengthen their squad during the player draft, focusing on improving both batting depth and middle-over control in bowling. With lessons learned and a more balanced approach, Biratnagar Kings will be eager to make a stronger impact in NPL 2025.
Pokhara Avengers 2025 Retained Players: Stronger, Sharper, Ready!
