Kathmandu: The Lumbini Lions, a prominent cricket franchise in the Nepal Premier League (NPL), have emerged as the highest-spending team in the recent auction, investing an impressive 84 lakh 75 thousand rupees. The auction, organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), took place at Soaltee Kathmandu, attracting significant attention from cricket enthusiasts and franchise owners.

Among their major acquisitions is Nepal cricket team captain Rohit Paudel, who now leads the Lions as their marquee player. Other notable additions to the squad include Bibek Yadav, Sandeep Jora, Arjun Saud, and Surya Tamang. The franchise spent 15 lakh each on securing Yadav, Jora, and Tamang, while other players like Aashutosh Ghiraiya and Tilak Raj Bhandari were picked up for 10 lakh each.

Additional purchases include Durgesh Gupta (8 lakh), Arjun Saud (5 lakh), Dinesh Adhikari (2.75 lakh), Abhishesh Gautam (2 lakh), and Bikash Aagri (2 lakh), completing a well-rounded team for the season ahead.

Lumbini Lions Club Chairman, Ishwar GC, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “We are thrilled with the outcome of the Nepal Premier League auction, as we’ve successfully assembled the best team in the league. Our strategy was clear from the beginning: to bring together a group of top-notch talents who can represent the Lumbini Lions with pride, passion, and skill. I am confident that with the dedication of our players and the support of our fans, we will lead this season and take home the championship trophy. The Lions are ready to roar louder than ever before.”

A total of 142 players were shortlisted for the auction, and eight teams have confirmed their participation in this season’s NPL, which is set to commence on November 16 in Kathmandu. Fans are eagerly anticipating the tournament as teams gear up for an exciting competition.