Hold your breath, cricket fans! The Chitwan Rhinos are charging full speed into the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) with a powerhouse squad. With six key players locked in, the Rhinos are ready to roar on the field and make their mark in Nepal’s biggest T20 cricket tournament. Let’s dive into the exciting details of their retained players and what this means for the upcoming season.
The Nepal Premier League is the heartbeat of cricket in Nepal, bringing together top local talent and international stars in a thrilling T20 format. After an action-packed first season in 2024, the Rhinos are back with a clear plan: build on their strengths and dominate the competition. Their retention strategy shows confidence in a mix of young stars and experienced players who can turn games around.
Leading the charge is their marquee star, Kushal Malla. At just 20 years old, Malla is a name every cricket fan in Nepal knows. This left-handed batting all-rounder has already made history as the youngest cricketer to score a half-century in ODIs at 15 years and 340 days. In the 2023 Asian Games, he smashed a 34-ball T20I century against Mongolia, setting a record for the fastest T20I hundred at the time. Malla’s explosive batting and handy spin bowling make him the backbone of the Chitwan Rhinos. As captain and marquee player, he’s ready to lead from the front.
Joining Malla in the Grade A category are Rijan Dhakal and Kamal Singh Airee. Dhakal, a left-arm pacer, was a standout performer in NPL 2024, picking up crucial wickets in the powerplay. His ability to swing the ball and bowl tight lines has earned him a reputation as one of Nepal’s most promising bowlers. Against Lumbini Lions last season, Dhakal cleaned up two batsmen in the first over, setting the tone for the Rhinos’ attack. His retention is a no-brainer for a team looking to strengthen their bowling.
Kamal Singh Airee, another Grade A retention, makes a much-awaited return after missing the first season due to injury. This fiery all-rounder is known for his aggressive batting and sharp pace bowling. His comeback adds depth to the Chitwan Rhinos squad, giving them flexibility in both departments. Fans are buzzing with excitement to see Airee back in the Rhinos’ jersey, ready to make an impact.
In Grade B, the Rhinos have retained Deepak Bohara and Amar Singh Rautela. Bohara, a young batter with a bright future, caught eyes in NPL 2024 with his fearless approach. At the U-19 level, he’s shown promise, and the Rhinos are banking on him to step up in the senior league. Rautela, a steady all-rounder, brings balance to the team. His ability to chip in with runs and wickets in clutch moments makes him a valuable asset. These two players reflect the Rhinos’ focus on nurturing homegrown talent.
Rounding out the retentions in Grade C is Gautam KC. This dependable player offers versatility, contributing with both bat and ball. While he may not grab headlines, his consistent performances in domestic tournaments have earned him a spot in the squad. Gautam’s role as a utility player gives the Chitwan Rhinos the flexibility to adapt to different match situations.
The Rhinos’ retention choices show a clear strategy: blend youth with experience, and back players who know the local conditions. Owned by Chitwan Medical College, the franchise spent NPR 1.76 crore to secure the team in the first season, making them one of the most ambitious outfits in the league. With a salary cap of NPR 90 lakh for domestic players, their focus on retaining key Nepali stars like Malla, Dhakal, and Airee signals their intent to dominate NPL Season 2.
The Chitwan Rhinos kicked off their NPL journey in 2024 with a bang, finishing third in the league stage with four wins in seven matches. They showcased their strength in a 32-run win over Janakpur Bolts, sealing their playoff spot. Despite falling to Karnali Yaks in the Eliminator, the Rhinos proved they’re a force to be reckoned with. Sohail Tanvir’s five-wicket haul against Kathmandu Gurkhas and Ravi Bopara’s unbeaten 59 against Karnali Yaks were highlights of their campaign. With their core squad intact, the Rhinos are poised to go further this time.
NPL Season 2, set to run from November to December 2025, promises to be bigger and better. The league features eight teams: Biratnagar Kings, Janakpur Bolts, Karnali Yaks, Kathmandu Gurkhas, Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, Sudurpaschim Royals, and the Chitwan Rhinos. Each team will play seven matches in a round-robin format, with the top four advancing to the playoffs. The Rhinos’ home ground, Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, will be buzzing with fans cheering for their heroes.
What makes the Rhinos stand out is their connection with the local community. The team’s mascot, Mr. Gaida (rhino in Nepali), embodies the spirit of Chitwan, a region known for its wildlife and vibrant culture. Social media posts from the team’s official handle have fans fired up, with many calling for their favorite players to return. The hashtag #FearTHECharge is trending as supporters rally behind the squad.
As the Chitwan Rhinos prepare for NPL Season 2, all eyes are on Kushal Malla and his team. Will they lift the trophy this time? Can Dhakal and Airee deliver match-winning performances? The anticipation is sky-high, and the Rhinos are ready to answer with their bats and balls. Cricket fever is sweeping Nepal, and the Rhinos are at the heart of it, charging toward glory in the Nepal Premier League.
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