Lumbini Lions vs Chitwan Rhinos Prediction: Who Will Win 5th T20 Nepal Premier League Match on 20th November 2025?
The Nepal Premier League 2025 heats up as Lumbini Lions take on the confident Chitwan Rhinos in the 5th T20 at Tribhuvan University Ground, Kirtipur. With both sides displaying contrasting starts to their campaigns, fans are eagerly searching for the Lumbini Lions vs Chitwan Rhinos prediction, hoping to understand which direction this high-intensity encounter may swing.
Chitwan Rhinos began their season with a convincing win over Karnali Yaks, using their balanced batting and experienced bowling attack to draw early momentum. Their mix of youth and international expertise makes them dangerous in any conditions. Meanwhile, Lumbini Lions are preparing for their first game of the season, entering the tournament fresh but with the confidence of a strong 2024 campaign—where they finished in the upper half of the table with three wins.
In their last meeting, Lumbini defeated Chitwan by 33 runs, showing tactical superiority and strong execution. Much of that performance revolved around Rohit Paudel’s sensational all-round display—80 off 57 and 4/17. His presence again makes the Lions a well-balanced outfit capable of dominating phases with both bat and ball. This upcoming encounter will test whether Chitwan can continue their winning momentum or if Lumbini can reassert their dominance. With early tournament standings on the line, the forecast for this Lions–Rhinos clash points to a tightly contested battle that could influence the entire group’s dynamics.
- Lumbini Lions enter fresh, having beaten Chitwan by 33 runs in their last head-to-head match
- Chitwan Rhinos started the season with a solid win and hold early momentum
- Lumbini’s core strength lies in their disciplined bowling and experienced all-rounders
- The match could shape early league standings and playoff positioning
Match Details
| Match | LL vs CR, 5th T20 – Nepal Premier League |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 20 November 2025 |
| Time | 3:45 PM NST |
| Venue | Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur |
| Broadcast | Star Sports Network, Fancode |
Team Preview
Lumbini Lions Preview
The Lumbini Lions begin their 2025 NPL season with high expectations. Their 2024 campaign saw them finish in the top half of the table, playing smart, composed cricket. Their final league win last year—a convincing 33-run victory over Chitwan Rhinos—showed the depth of the side and their ability to dominate both with bat and ball. Central to that win was Rohit Paudel, who delivered a tournament-defining all-round masterclass with a brilliant 80 off 57 balls and figures of 4/17. His leadership and control make Lumbini a well-structured and tactically mature side.
Lumbini’s batting unit includes strong anchors like Aarif Sheikh and Aasif Sheikh, along with dynamic stroke-makers in Kushal Bhurtel and Dev Khanal. Their top-order balances aggression with reliability, often setting platforms that allow Paudel and Airee to capitalise later.
Their bowling attack is equally impressive. Saad Bin Zafar brings world-class left-arm spin, controlling the middle overs with exceptional accuracy. Ramon Simmonds provides the pace and bounce needed in Kirtipur conditions, while Basir Ahmad and Pratish GC add variety. With strong all-round options in Paudel, Airee, and Sheikh, Lumbini possess one of the most tactically flexible attacks in the league.
Lumbini will look to start strong, maintain pressure through disciplined spells, and capitalise on their batting depth.
Chitwan Rhinos Preview
The Chitwan Rhinos began their 2025 campaign on a positive note, securing a clinical win over Karnali Yaks. Their performance reflected well-defined roles, improved powerplay batting, and disciplined death bowling—three areas where they struggled last season. Their early momentum puts them in a competitive position ahead of this important clash.
Kushal Malla continues to be their most dynamic batter at the top, offering explosive acceleration and strong spin-hitting ability. Alongside him, Dawid Malan adds experience and stability, controlling pace and tempo while enabling the middle order to build around him. Binod Bhandari, a proven finisher in Nepali cricket, remains crucial for late-overs acceleration.
Their bowling attack looks balanced. Sohail Tanvir provides control and wicket-taking ability with the new ball, while Rijan Dhakal brings precision through the middle overs. Lalit Rajbanshi adds spin variety, keeping batters tied down. Their death-over execution in the opening match was a big positive, holding their nerve to close out a tight contest.
Chitwan aim to continue their momentum, improve power-hitting consistency, and match the Lions’ middle-overs control to stay ahead in this clash.
Team Squads
Lumbini Lions Squad
Rohit Paudel, Saad Bin Zafar, Aarif Sheikh, Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Ramon Simmonds, Basir Ahmad, Dev Khanal, Aakash Tripathi, Pratish GC.
Chitwan Rhinos Squad
Kushal Malla, Binod Bhandari, Dawid Malan, Akash Chand, Suman Bohara, Kamal Singh Airee, Rijan Dhakal, Sohail Tanvir, Bipin Rawal, Bhim Sharki, Lalit Rajbanshi.
Probable Playing XI
Lumbini Lions
Paudel, Zafar, A. Sheikh, Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Airee, Simmonds, Basir Ahmad, Dev Khanal, Tripathi, Pratish GC.
Chitwan Rhinos
Malla, Bhandari, Malan, Sharki, Bohara, Kamal Singh Airee, Dhakal, Tanvir, Rawal, Rajbanshi, Akash Chand.
Lumbini Lions vs Chitwan Rhinos Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Aasif Sheikh |
| BAT | Rohit Paudel |
| BAT | Dawid Malan |
| BAT | Kushal Bhurtel |
| ALL | Dipendra Singh Airee |
| ALL | Kushal Malla |
| ALL | Saad Bin Zafar |
| BOWL | Sohail Tanvir |
| BOWL | Ramon Simmonds |
| BOWL | Lalit Rajbanshi |
| BOWL | Rijan Dhakal |
This fantasy XI blends power-hitters, dependable anchors, and wicket-taking bowlers. Rohit Paudel and Dawid Malan bring consistency, while Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh provide aggression upfront. All-rounders like Airee, Malla, and Zafar ensure a high probability of fantasy returns from both departments. In bowling, Simmonds and Tanvir deliver early breakthroughs, with Dhakal and Rajbanshi strengthening the spin attack.
Captain / Vice-Captain Picks
- Captain: Rohit Paudel
- Vice-Captain: Kushal Malla
Players to Avoid
- Bipin Rawal – inconsistent scoring
- Basir Ahmad – limited opportunities
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today
Lumbini Lions enter this match as clear favourites. Their squad has more clarity, balance, and depth across all departments. With Rohit Paudel, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Saad Bin Zafar, the Lions possess world-class all-round options capable of shifting momentum in any over. Their top order is more stable, and their finishing power outmatches Chitwan’s middle order.
Lumbini also have a far superior spin attack—an advantage in Kirtipur’s turning conditions. Furthermore, their head-to-head confidence from last season’s 33-run win gives them psychological edge. Chitwan Rhinos are in form, but their reliance on a few key players makes them vulnerable under pressure. Overall, Lumbini’s structure, experience, and match-winners make them the stronger side.
Pitch Report
The Kirtipur pitch generally offers balanced conditions. Batters enjoy early scoring opportunities thanks to true bounce, but the surface slows as the match progresses, bringing spinners into the game. Seamers using cutters and slower variations also find good purchase. Teams batting first often aim for a total around 150, which is considered competitive here. Middle-overs discipline becomes crucial for both sides.
Weather Report
The weather is expected to remain clear with mild late-afternoon breeze. Temperatures will stay between 18–23°C. No significant rain threat is forecast, ensuring smooth match proceedings.
Broadcast Details
Live on Star Sports Network & Fancode
Toss Prediction
Lumbini Lions likely to win the toss.
Match Prediction
Lumbini Lions’ balance, stronger bowling unit, and superior head-to-head record make them favourites. Chitwan Rhinos will compete, but Lumbini’s all-round depth gives them the decisive edge in Kirtipur conditions.
Winner: Lumbini Lions
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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