Kathmandu, Nov 14: The four playoff teams for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) have been confirmed, with Kathmandu Gorkhas and Chitwan Rhinos securing their places following defending champions Lumbini Lions’ victory over Biratnagar Kings on Saturday night.
Lumbini defeated Biratnagar by four wickets to finish at the top of the standings with 11 points from seven matches, securing a direct entry into the first qualifier. Sudurpaschim Royals sit second with 10 points from seven games.
Kathmandu Gorkhas are currently third with eight points from six matches, while Chitwan Rhinos occupy fourth place with seven points from the same number of games. Both teams have one league-stage fixture remaining.
The final standings between Kathmandu and Sudurpaschim will be determined by Sunday’s result. If Kathmandu defeat Pokhara Avengers, they will finish second with 10 points and qualify for the first qualifier against Lumbini Lions.
However, if Kathmandu lose, they will remain third, with Sudurpaschim retaining second place. In that scenario, Kathmandu will face Chitwan in the eliminator.
Under the NPL playoff format, the top two teams compete in the first qualifier, with the winner advancing directly to the final. The losing side gets another opportunity through the second qualifier. Meanwhile, the third- and fourth-placed teams face off in the eliminator, where the losing team is eliminated from the tournament.
The final two league-stage matches will be played on Sunday. Kathmandu Gorkhaz will take on Pokhara Avengers in the first fixture, while Chitwan Rhinos will face Karnali Yaks in the second match.
