Sudurpaschim Royals Vs Lumbini Lions NPL Final Match Analysis

A comprehensive analysis and preview of the Sudurpaschim Royals vs Lumbini Lions final in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025. The title deciding match played today (13 Dec 2025) at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. 

Playoff Performances

Sudurpaschim Royals

- Finished top of the league stage and secured a place in the playoffs early, demonstrating consistency throughout the tournament.

- In Qualifier 1, they beat Biratnagar Kings by 77 runs to reach the final, showing both batting depth and bowling control.

Lumbini Lions

-Entered the knockout stage and won successive matches: a solid 4-wicket win over Kathmandu Gorkhas in the Eliminator and a 40-run victory over Biratnagar in Qualifier 2 to book their final spot — their first-ever NPL final appearance

Key Strengths

Sudurpaschim Royals

Consistency & Depth: Topped the league stage with reliable all-round performances, especially with experienced players delivering under pressure. 

Bowling Attack: Able to defend totals by making early breakthroughs; bowlers like Abinash Bohara have been impactful throughout the tournament.

Batting Options: With aggressive batters such as Binod Bhandari providing stability and muscle, Royals can post or chase competitively. 

Lumbini Lions

Momentum: Riding a wave of form with five consecutive wins to reach the final — including key contributions from captain Rohit Paudel and import players.

Bowling Discipline: Shared wickets among bowlers in crucial games, particularly in the Biratnagar upset, indicating depth and adaptability. 

Underdog Advantage: With nothing to lose and a rising confidence curve, they can put pressure on favorites early in the match.

Prediction & Expectations

While Lumbini Lions carry great momentum and excitement, most cricket analysts lean toward Sudurpaschim Royals as favorites due to:

- Their superior performance in the league stage.

- Stronger overall balance and experience

- Head-to-head advantage and psychological edge going into the final

Predicted Winner: Sudurpaschim Royals (approx. 60-65% probability in many previews) — but as in all T20 finals, the game can turn quickly.

Fan Opinion: Prason Dhakal 

Prason Dhakal, a passionate NPL follower, strongly believes Lumbini Lions will lift the trophy, and his confidence revolves around one key figure:

“Lumbini Lions will win the final because of Rohit Paudel.
Big matches need big players, and Rohit has that calm mindset and match-winning ability.
When pressure comes, he performs.”

Why fans like Prason back Rohit Paudel:

🧠 Composure under pressure – Rohit has shown maturity beyond his age

🏏 Captain’s responsibility – leads from the front in knockout games

🔥 Big-match temperament – capable of anchoring or accelerating as needed

🇳🇵 National team experience – accustomed to high-stakes situations

For many fans, Rohit isn’t just a player — he’s the X-factor who can turn the final on its head