Janakpur Bolts vs Lumbini Lions, 25th Match

The Janakpur Bolts and the Lumbini Lions are set to clash in the 25th encounter of the Nepal Premier League 2025 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground. Both sides have displayed competitive form recently, though the Bolts have demonstrated slightly greater consistency, winning 3 of their last 5 matches compared to the Lions’ 2 wins. Head-to-head, the Bolts and Lions have met 8 times in the NPL, with the Bolts edging ahead with 5 victories. Key players like Janakpur’s opener Aakash Singh have been instrumental, contributing heavily with the bat, while their all-rounder Ritesh Thapa has been pivotal with both bat and ball. The Lions rely on the experience of Sushan Bhattarai’s steady middle-order batting and Prakash Gurung’s wicket-taking capability. Strategically, the Bolts are likely to exploit their strong pace attack early on to unsettle the Lions’ top order, while the Lions may look to consolidate their innings through partnerships and accelerate in the death overs. Considering recent results, key player contributions, and tactical plans, the Janakpur Bolts slightly edge out their opponents in this contest.

If Janakpur Bolts bat first, they are expected to post a competitive total around 160-170 runs given the pitch's balance and their strong batting lineup. Their aggressive top order and middle-order hitters should help them build a strong score. Conversely, if Lumbini Lions decide to bat first, a target of 150-160 seems achievable, considering their slightly inconsistent batting order but dynamic finishers towards the end. The pitch supports stroke play but also offers some assistance to bowlers, so both teams will look to capitalize on powerplay overs and avoid collapses in the middle. Overall, an opening total around 160 runs would be par for the course in this fixture.

The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground is known for its balanced pitch that provides equal assistance to batsmen and bowlers. Historically, the average first-innings score at this venue hovers around 155-165 runs in T20 matches. Teams batting second have a winning percentage of approximately 48%, indicating a fairly even contest for chasers. Weather is forecast to be hot and dry with negligible chances of rain, favoring consistent playing conditions throughout the match. Janakpur Bolts’ Ritesh Thapa holds the best bowling figures on this ground with a 4-wicket haul in last season, while their opener Aakash Singh boasts the highest individual score of 85 runs against Lumbini Lions here. For Lumbini Lions, Prakash Gurung’s medium pace yielded 3 crucial wickets last time. These players are expected to leverage the pitch characteristics skilfully.

Matches Played	Won by Janakpur Bolts	Won by Lumbini Lions
8	5	3

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches
Janakpur Bolts	W, L, W, W, L
Lumbini Lions	L, W, L, W, L

Aakash Singh: The Janakpur opener has been in superb touch this season, consistently providing brisk starts with an average of 38 and a strike rate above 140.

Ritesh Thapa: A valuable all-rounder for the Bolts, he has taken 12 wickets in the league so far and contributed quick runs down the order.

Krishna Shahi: Janakpur’s finisher, known for his big-hitting ability, has been crucial in closing out games with important late-innings sixes.

Sushan Bhattarai: Experienced Lumbini Lions batsman who anchors the innings well, averaging 33 in the tournament with steady accumulations.

Prakash Gurung: Leading wicket-taker for the Lions with 10 wickets, known for his subtle variations and accuracy in the middle overs.

Dipak Rai: Dynamic all-rounder who can change the game with his power hitting and useful medium pace bowling spells.