As the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) is near, Kathmandu Gurkhas have officially announced their retained players list. As one of the most followed teams in the league, fans have eagerly awaited to see which star cricketers will continue to wear the Gurkhas jersey this season.
Kathmandu Gurkhas had a mixed NPL 2024 season, finishing 5th on the table. Despite some thrilling wins, they narrowly missed the playoffs due to net run rate, but this season, they look stronger and more balanced with key players retained.
Official Retained Players List
Grukhas have announced their retained players list through their Facebook Page in the date of June 28, 2025. This season, they have retained 6 players as their core.
Kathmandu Gurkhas retained players for NPL 2025:
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Karan KC | Captain, All-rounder |
| Bhim Sharki | Top-order Batsman |
| Shahab Alam | Bowler |
| Dipesh Kandel | Bowler |
| Rashid Khan | All Rounder |
| Pratik Shrestha | All-rounder |
Karan KC continues as the team’s captain and a key all-rounder. Bhim Sharki is expected to anchor the top order, while Shahab Alam and Dipesh Kandel will lead the bowling attack. Rashid Khan adds depth to the bowling unit, and Pratik Shrestha provides balance with his all-round capabilities.
Squad Strength & Strategy
Kathmandu Gurkhas have strategically retained a core group of experienced and promising players for the NPL 2025 season, aiming to build upon their previous performances and make their squad more strong.
- Karan KC: Captain and all-rounder, leading the team with both bat and ball.
- Bhim Sharki: Top-order batsman, providing stability at the crease.
- Shahab Alam: Bowler, contributing with the ball in key moments.
- Dipesh Kandel: Bowler, adding depth to the bowling attack.
- Rashid Khan: All-Rounder, known for his economical spells and wicket-taking ability.
- Pratik Shrestha: All-rounder, offering balance to the team.
Gurkha’s Performance in NPL 2024
- Match 1: Lost against Chitwan Rhinos by 5 wickets
- Match 2: Won against Karnali Yaks by 3 wickets
- Match 3: Lost against Sudur Paschim Royals by 73 runs
- Match 4: Won against Lumbini Lions by 18 runs
- Match 5: Lost against Janakpur Bolts by 5 wickets
- Match 6: Won against Pokhara Avengers by 6 wickets
- Match 7: Won against Biratnagar Kings by 1 wicket
Gurkha’s had a mixed gameplay with victories and defeats alternating for the first season of NPL. However, they concluded the league stage with a narrow victory over Biratnagar Kings, finishing 5th in the standings. This performance highlighted both their potential and areas for improvement in future seasons.
What to Expect in NPL 2025
Kathmandu Gurkhas enter the NPL 2025 season with a stronger and more balanced squad, retaining key players like captain Karan KC, Bhim Sharki, and reliable bowlers Shahab Alam and Dipesh Kandel.
Their retention strategy focuses on blending experienced national players with emerging local talent, aiming to build team chemistry and versatility. With this solid core, the Gurkhas look well-equipped to improve on their 2024 performance, showing greater consistency in both batting and bowling departments.
The team’s leadership under Karan KC remains a crucial factor, providing strong guidance on and off the field. Expect a dynamic batting lineup capable of adapting to various match situations and a versatile bowling attack ready to tackle different pitch conditions.
Overall, Kathmandu Gurkhas are poised to be serious contenders in the tournament, aiming to secure a playoff spot and challenge for the NPL title with renewed ambition and strategy.
