Shahil, Surya the major pick to boost Sandeep Lamichhane’s Kings

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Aug 10, 2025

After finishing in the bottom three in the inaugural season, Biratnagar Kings had the task of reshaping their domestic core for the second edition of the Nepal Premier League.

Led by marquee player Sandeep Lamichhane, the Kings retained Lokesh Bam, Pratish GC, Basir Ahamad, Subash Bhandari, and Naren Bhatta.

Their auction was a measured one, adding depth and balance across departments. They secured two proper batters in Sahil Patel — who can open the innings and double up as a wicketkeeper, and the experienced Sankar Rana, a proven top-three batter in the shorter formats.

Sahil, who rose through the ranks with an impressive U19 World Cup Qualifier earlier this year, also featured in three T20 leagues in Madhesh Province, scoring 313 runs in 14 innings. He is likely to open alongside Lokesh Bam.

In the spin department, the Kings snapped up left-arm orthodox bowler Surya Tamang for NRs 10 lakh. Surya, operating in attack with Sandeep, could pose a genuine threat to opposition batters in the middle overs.

From Sudurpaschim Province, promising allrounder Narayan Joshi joined for NRs 5 lakh. Capable of playing the finisher role in the lower middle order, Narayan also offers a handy pace bowling option.

Right-arm medium pacer Shrawan Kisku from Koshi Province will represent his home franchise, the only Koshi player in the Kings set-up this season.

While the spin and allround options look strong, the pace attack remains a concern. With Pratish GC the only established seamer, the Kings will likely need an overseas quick to share the new-ball duties, particularly important considering matches under lights this season.

Biratnagar Kings Squad: Sandeep Lamichhane, Lokesh Bam, Pratish GC, Basir Ahamad, Surya Tamang, Naren Bhatta, Subash Bhandari, Narayan Joshi, Sahil Patel, Sankar Rana, Shrawan Kisku.