As the inaugural season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 nears its thrilling conclusion, the stage is set for the playoffs, where four teams will battle it out for the ultimate glory. Scheduled from December 18 to 21 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, the playoffs promise high-stakes drama and intense cricketing action.

The Road to the Playoffs

After an exciting league stage, the top four teams have secured their spots in the playoffs, each with a chance to claim the first-ever NPL title. Here’s how the teams finished:

Sudurpaschim Royals emerged as table-toppers with 12 points from 7 matches.

Janakpur Bolts finished second with 10 points from 7 matches.

Chitwan Rhinos claimed third place with 8 points, narrowly edging out competitors on Net Run Rate (NRR).

Karnali Yaks clinched the fourth spot, also with 8 points, edging past Kathmandu Gurkhas on NRR.

Unfortunately, Kathmandu Gurkhas missed out on playoff qualification, joining Lumbini Lions, Biratnagar Kings, and Pokhara Avengers in the eliminated group.

Playoff Format and Fixtures

The NPL playoffs follow a standard franchise league format, with four high-stakes matches leading to the grand finale:

Eliminator:

Matchup: Chitwan Rhinos (3rd) vs Karnali Yaks (4th)

Date & Time: December 18, 9 AM IST

Qualifier 1:

Matchup: Sudurpaschim Royals (1st) vs Janakpur Bolts (2nd)

Date & Time: December 18, 1 PM IST

Qualifier 2:

Matchup: Winner of the Eliminator vs Loser of Qualifier 1

Date & Time: December 19, 12 PM IST

Final:

Matchup: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Qualifier 2

Date & Time: December 21, 12 PM IST

Where to Watch

Fans from across the globe can tune in to catch the action live:

India: Fancode App/Website, Star Sports Select 1

Nepal: Action Sports HD, DishHome Go, Star Sports

Bangladesh: Star Sports

USA & Canada: Willow TV

As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on the four teams vying for glory in this historic tournament. Who will rise to the top and etch their name in NPL history? Only time will tell.