The Lumbini Lions have bolstered their squad with the addition of Australian all-rounder Ben Cutting, who becomes the second foreign player to join the team for the upcoming Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. Cutting joins English cricketer Tom Moores, who was previously signed by the Lions. The NPL, scheduled to run from November 30 to December 21 in Kathmandu, promises to be a thrilling tournament, and Lumbini Lions’ latest recruitment adds to the anticipation.
Ben Cutting, known for his hard-hitting batting and handy medium-fast bowling, has represented Australia in 4 ODIs and 7 T20Is. His experience on the international stage will bring an added edge to Lumbini Lions’ lineup, making them a formidable team in this year’s NPL.
Coaching Staff and Leadership
Lumbini Lions has also made key additions to their coaching staff, with Nandan Phadnis taking on the role of head coach and Shakti Gauchan serving as the consultant coach. Under their guidance, the team will look to make an impact in the tournament. The marquee player for the Lions is Nepal’s very own Rohit Kumar Paudel, who will lead the team on the field.
Team Overview and Player Signings
Lumbini Lions is owned by Ishwor GC, and the total team price has been set at NRs 1,86,00,004. The team’s squad is a mix of local and international talent, with a strong backbone of experienced players alongside young, promising cricketers.
Here’s a look at the key players and signings for Lumbini Lions ahead of NPL 2024:
Marquee Player:
- Rohit Kumar Paudel (Nepal)
International Players:
- Tom Moores (England)
- Ben Cutting (Australia)
Sold Players:
- Surya Tamang (NRs 1,500,000) – Category A
- Bibek Yadav (NRs 1,500,000) – Category A
- Sundeep Jora (NRs 1,500,000) – Category A
- Aashutosh Ghiraiya (NRs 1,000,000) – Category B
- Tilak Raj Bhandari (NRs 1,000,000) – Category B
- Durgesh Gupta (NRs 800,000) – Category B
- Arjun Saud (NRs 500,000) – Category C
- Dinesh Adhikari (NRs 275,000) – Category D
- Abhishesh Gautam (NRs 200,000) – Category D
- Bikash Aagri (NRs 200,000) – Category D
Total Spent:
- NRs 8,475,000
Looking Ahead to the NPL 2024
With a star-studded squad, including international players and a well-rounded coaching staff, Lumbini Lions are setting themselves up as one of the teams to watch in the Nepal Premier League 2024. Fans can look forward to seeing the team in action as they aim to compete for the title in Kathmandu from November 30 to December 21.
As the countdown to the tournament begins, the Lumbini Lions’ mix of local talent, experienced international players like Ben Cutting, and strong leadership under Rohit Kumar Paudel will be key to their success. With everything in place, Lumbini Lions are ready to make a mark in the exciting cricketing action that is set to unfold at NPL 2024.