Janakpur Bolts (JKB) vs Kathmandu Gurkhas (KMG) – Dream11 Prediction – Match 1, Nepal Premier League 2025 (17 November 2025)
The inaugural match of the Nepal Premier League 2025 sees Janakpur Bolts take on Kathmandu Gurkhas on 17 November 2025 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Nepal. The Bolts enter as defending champions and will be keen to begin their campaign strongly. Kathmandu Gurkhas will look to upset the favourites and set the tone for their tournament. The venue usually offers balanced conditions with batting favouring once the innings progresses, but early movement for bowlers can make a difference.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, 17 November 2025
- Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
- Format: Twenty20 (T20)
- Match: 1 of Nepal Premier League 2025
Team Previews
Janakpur Bolts (JKB)
Janakpur Bolts are the side to beat in this league. With experience from the previous edition and a championship mindset, they will aim to dominate early. Their batting unit has fire-power and their bowlers are familiar with the home venue. If they settle early, they can impose pressure.
Kathmandu Gurkhas (KMG)
Kathmandu Gurkhas will enter this match with the aim of making a statement. Their challenge will be to handle the pressure of opening match and the Bolts’ momentum. A strong start in both batting and bowling will be essential if they are to upset the favourites.
Probable XIs (Tentative)
(Final playing XIs to be confirmed at toss.)
Janakpur Bolts – Probable XI
- Aasif Sheikh
- Lahiru Milantha
- Dipendra Singh Airee (c)
- Ishan Pandey
- Lalit Rajbanshi
- … (remaining players to be confirmed)
Kathmandu Gurkhas – Probable XI
- Rohit Paudel
- Kushal Malla
- Monty Desai (c)
- … (remaining players to be confirmed)
Top Fantasy Picks
- Aasif Sheikh (JKB): An aggressive top-order batter; high fantasy ceiling.
- Lahiru Milantha (JKB): Overseas-experienced batter; could dominate early.
- Dipendra Singh Airee (JKB): All-rounder; potential for dual contributions in bat and ball.
- Rohit Paudel (KMG): Young top-order bat with breakthrough potential.
- Kushal Malla (KMG): Explosive batter; differential pick in fantasy.
- Lalit Rajbanshi (JKB): Spinner/utility bowler; useful for middle-overs control.
Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain (2× points): Lahiru Milantha or Aasif Sheikh
- Vice-Captain (1.5× points): Dipendra Singh Airee or Rohit Paudel
Match Prediction
Given their past success and familiarity with conditions, Janakpur Bolts hold a slight edge heading into this opener. Kathmandu Gurkhas have the potential to challenge but need to be sharp from the outset.
Prediction: Janakpur Bolts to win by around 6-8 wickets.
Fantasy Tips
- Confirm toss & playing XI before locking Dream11 teams — roles (especially overseas players) matter a lot.
- Prioritise batters likely to face most deliveries (top-4) and bowlers who will bowl full quota in T20 (4 overs).
- Include at least one all-rounder and one overseas star for added value.
- Suggested team split: 6 players from Janakpur Bolts, 5 from Kathmandu Gurkhas to hedge risk while capturing upside.
Conclusion
The JKB vs KMG match opens the Nepal Premier League 2025 with an exciting contest. Key players to monitor include Aasif Sheikh, Lahiru Milantha, Dipendra Singh Airee, Rohit Paudel and Kushal Malla. While Bolts are favourites, Gurkhas can turn it if they execute. For your Dream11 cricket lineup, combine dependable picks with one or two high-ceiling differentials for maximum impact.
