NPL Auction 2025
Players Sold, Unsold List & Team Squads
The excitement for cricket in Nepal keeps growing as fans get ready for the second season of the top T20 league — the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025. The NPL Auction 2025 brought together talented young players and big stars in a competitive bidding event. With local and international cricketers joining, fans can expect a very entertaining season ahead.
NPL Auction 2025 Overview
The Nepal Premier League is a T20 cricket tournament that gives local players a chance to play alongside international professionals. The league has eight teams that compete in a double round-robin format followed by playoffs. Each team focuses on forming a balanced squad with a mix of batsmen, bowlers, and all-rounders.
This year's league builds on the success of the first season, offering even more excitement. The event also supports young Nepalese cricketers by providing a platform to show their skills.
Auction Date and Format
The NPL Auction 2025 was held on August 9, 2025, in Kathmandu. A total of 458 players registered, but only 150 were shortlisted. Out of these, 37 players were sold to different teams. The top bid price reached 15 lakh Nepali rupees. Teams were allowed to retain key players from the previous season to maintain their core strength.
Highlights of the NPL Auction 2025
Some exciting moments during the auction included high bids for popular players. Arjun Saud and Dev Khanal joined Chitwan Rhinos for 15 lakh each. Pawan Sarraf was bought by Karnali Yaks for the same amount, while Mohammad Aadil Alam joined Kathmandu Gorkhas for 15 lakh. These big purchases showed the teams' confidence in top performers. However, some experienced names went unsold, which surprised fans and experts alike.
Top Buys and Surprises
Other major signings included Yuvraj Khatri (Karnali Yaks), Dilip Nath (Lumbini Lions), and Surya Tamang (Biratnagar Kings), all for 10 lakh. On the other hand, some senior players like Sharad Vesawkar remained unsold. International stars such as Faf du Plessis also joined the league, making it even more exciting for fans.
Players Sold List
Complete list of players sold during the NPL Auction 2025 with their respective teams and prices.
| Player Name | Team | Price (Lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| Arjun Saud | Chitwan Rhinos | 15 |
| Dev Khanal | Chitwan Rhinos | 15 |
| Pawan Sarraf | Karnali Yaks | 15 |
| Mohammad Aadil Alam | Kathmandu Gorkhas | 15 |
| Hemant Dhami | Sudurpaschim Royals | 10 |
| Sher Malla | Lumbini Lions | 10 |
| Yuvraj Khatri | Karnali Yaks | 10 |
| Dilip Nath | Lumbini Lions | 10 |
| Surya Tamang | Biratnagar Kings | 10 |
| Santosh Yadav | Kathmandu Gorkhas | 10 |
Unsold Players List
Notable players who did not get selected during the auction but could still be picked later in the season.
Notable Unsold Players
Full Team Squads After Auction
Complete squads for all eight teams in the Nepal Premier League 2025 season.
Biratnagar Kings
Chitwan Rhinos
Janakpur Bolts
Karnali Yaks
Kathmandu Gorkhas
Lumbini Lions
Pokhara Avengers
Sudurpaschim Royals
Recent Updates in NPL 2025
After the auction, a few changes were made. Lumbini Lions replaced injured Bibek Yadav with Sumit Maharjan. The tournament will start on November 17, 2025, at TU International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, and continue until December 13, 2025. The event will include 28 league matches followed by playoffs, all at the same venue.
What to Expect in the Season
Fans can look forward to exciting matches, big rivalries, and strong performances from both local and international stars. Teams like Chitwan Rhinos look strong on paper, but surprises are always possible. Spin bowlers may play an important role due to pitch conditions. The tournament is set to make Nepal's cricket even more popular.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Nepal Premier League Auction 2025 take place?
The auction took place on August 9, 2025, in Kathmandu, where 37 players were sold from a shortlist of 150.
Who were the most expensive players in NPL Auction 2025?
Arjun Saud, Dev Khanal, Pawan Sarraf, and Mohammad Aadil Alam — each sold for 15 lakh Nepali rupees.
How many teams are in Nepal Premier League 2025?
There are eight teams: Biratnagar Kings, Chitwan Rhinos, Janakpur Bolts, Karnali Yaks, Kathmandu Gorkhas, Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, and Sudurpaschim Royals.
When does the NPL 2025 season start?
The season begins on November 17, 2025, with the final on December 13, 2025.
Were there any player replacements after the auction?
Yes, Lumbini Lions replaced Bibek Yadav (injured) with Sumit Maharjan.