League: Nepal Premier League

Ben Mike

Biography

Ben Mike, full name Benjamin Wentworth Munro Mike, is an English cricketer born on August 24, 1998, in Nottingham, England. He is recognized as a bowling all-rounder, proficient as a right-handed batsman and a right-arm medium-fast bowler. Ben Mike made his first-class debut for Leicestershire in the 2018 County Championship on September 4, 2018. He made his Twenty20 debut on May 1, 2019, for Leicestershire against the touring Pakistan team.

Early Life and Education:

Mike attended Loughborough Grammar School, where he developed his cricketing skills before advancing to professional cricket.

Domestic Career:
  • Leicestershire (2018–2022): Mike graduated from Leicestershire’s academy and made his List A debut against India A on June 19, 2018. He debuted in first-class cricket on September 4, 2018, against Sussex, impressively taking nine wickets in the match.
  • Warwickshire (2019): In 2019, Mike joined Warwickshire on loan, seeking more first-class opportunities.
  • Yorkshire (2022–2023): Mike signed with Yorkshire ahead of the 2023 season, aiming to further his career. During his tenure, he primarily featured in white-ball formats, participating in two County Championship matches.
  • Return to Leicestershire (2024): In October 2024, Mike returned to Leicestershire after Yorkshire agreed to release him, seeking regular play across all formats.
Nepal Premier Lague (2024):

Ben Mike also represented the Janakpur Bolts, the champions of the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. Although he only played a single match during the tournament, his presence added depth to the team’s roster. While his contributions on the field were limited, his inclusion reflected the Bolts’ strategy of bringing in experienced players to bolster their squad.

Despite limited participation, Ben Mike’s involvement in the NPL 2024 showcased his growing presence in franchise cricket and his willingness to explore opportunities in different leagues worldwide. His team’s championship victory further highlighted the strength of the squad he was part of.

Playing Style:

As a bowling all-rounder, Mike is known for his right-arm medium-fast bowling and his ability to contribute valuable runs in the lower-middle order. His versatility makes him a valuable asset in various formats of the game.

Lahiru Milantha

Lahiru Milantha

Biography

Lahiru Milantha, born on May 28, 1994, in Kalutara, Sri Lanka is a Sri Lankan-born American, left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman who has made significant contributions in both Sri Lankan domestic cricket and the American cricket scene.

Nepal Premier League (2024)

Lahiru Milantha has cemented his place as a standout performer in the inaugural season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. Representing Janakpur Bolts, he emerged as the highest run-scorer of the tournament, amassing 293 runs in 10 innings, demonstrating unmatched consistency throughout the league.

Milantha’s batting contributions were instrumental in Janakpur Bolts’ triumph, as they clinched the NPL Season 1 title. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate at critical moments made him the backbone of his team’s batting lineup.

In the final against Sudurpaschim, Milantha delivered when it mattered most, smashing a brilliant 87-run knock, a performance that proved pivotal in securing the championship. His heroics throughout the tournament earned him widespread admiration and solidified his reputation as one of the most reliable and impactful players in the league.

🏏🔥 Key Highlights of Lahiru Milantha’s NPL 2024 Campaign:

  • Highest Run-Scorer: 293 runs in 10 innings.
  • Team Contribution: Played a vital role in Janakpur Bolts’ championship victory.
  • Final Performance: Scored an impressive 87 runs in the final match.

Lahiru Milantha’s outstanding NPL season is a testament to his skill, adaptability, and determination to perform under pressure. His journey continues to inspire cricket fans across the globe!

Sri Lankan Career:

Milantha began his professional cricket journey with Ragama Cricket Club, making his List A debut on December 12, 2013, against Colts Cricket Club during the Premier Limited Overs Tournament. He transitioned to first-class cricket on February 14, 2014, facing Chilaw Marians Cricket Club in the Premier League Tournament. His T20 debut came on April 1, 2015, against Colombo Cricket Club in the SLC Twenty-20 Tournament.

Throughout his domestic career in Sri Lanka, Milantha showcased his batting prowess. Notably, he was the leading run-scorer in the 2017–18 Premier Limited Overs Tournament, amassing 448 runs from six matches. In February 2020, he achieved a career milestone by scoring a double century, making 252 runs for Badureliya Sports Club in the Premier League Tournament.

Transition to American Cricket:

In the early 2020s, Milantha migrated to the United States, seeking new opportunities in cricket. He made his Minor League Cricket (MiLC) debut with the Morrisville Raptors on August 28, 2021, against Orlando Galaxy. In 2023, he joined the Silicon Valley Strikers, emerging as their top scorer with 267 runs in the MiLC Pacific Division.

Milantha’s consistent performances earned him recognition in Major League Cricket (MLC). In March 2023, he was drafted by the Texas Super Kings as their wicketkeeper for the league’s inaugural season. The following year, he was selected by the Washington Freedom in the 10th round of the domestic draft for the 2024 MLC season.

Career Statistics:
  • First-Class (FC): In 66 matches, Milantha scored 4,537 runs at an average of 44.92, including 12 centuries and 21 half-centuries, with a highest score of 252. As a wicketkeeper, he secured 65 catches and 16 stumpings.
  • List A: Over 44 matches, he accumulated 1,394 runs at an average of 34.00, with one century and 12 half-centuries, and a top score of 112. His wicketkeeping record includes 16 catches and seven stumpings.
  • T20s: In 46 matches, Milantha scored 1,082 runs at an average of 25.76 and a strike rate of 135.58, with four half-centuries and a highest score of 78. He also achieved 18 catches and five stumpings.

Lahiru Milantha’s journey from Sri Lankan domestic cricket to the evolving cricket landscape in the United States and Nepal underscores his adaptability and commitment to the sport. His performances continue to make a significant impact across various cricketing platforms.

 
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Result

Janakpur Bolts won by 8 wickets

Ismat Alam

Biography

Ismat Alam, born on February 2, 2002, in Nangarhar, Afghanistan, is a right-handed batsman and right-arm fast-medium bowler, recognized for his all-round capabilities in cricket.

Nepal Premier League

Ismat Alam, a talented all-rounder from Afghanistan, not only showcases his cricketing prowess in his home country but also plays a significant role in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. Representing the Biratnagar Kings, Ismat has been a key player, contributing with both bat and ball.

His ability to adapt to different conditions and deliver consistent performances has made him a valuable asset for the Biratnagar Kings in this competitive tournament. Keep an eye on this rising star as he continues to make an impact in the NPL and beyond!

Cricketing Career

Alam has represented Afghanistan in various domestic competitions, showcasing his skills as both a batsman and a bowler. His right-arm fast-medium bowling adds depth to his team’s bowling attack, while his right-handed batting provides stability in the middle order.

Ismat Alam’s contributions to Afghan cricket highlight his potential as a promising all-rounder, and he continues to be a player to watch in the coming years.

Harsh Thaker

Harsh Thaker

Biography

Harsh Tusharbhai Thaker, born on October 24, 1997, is a Canadian cricketer known for his all-round capabilities as a right-handed batsman and right-arm off-break bowler. He has represented Canada in various international formats, including One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). Thaker has shown great potential as one of Canada’s promising cricketing talents. He made his senior debut for the Canada national cricket team in 2018. He plays as an all-rounder batting right-handed and bowling right-arm off spin. Thaker’s technique and ability to perform under pressure have earned him a place in Canada’s national team, where he has contributed to key matches.

In domestic cricket, Harsh Thaker has been an important player, particularly in the Canada National Cricket Team setup. His contributions in various regional and national tournaments have helped establish him as a reliable batsman. His solid performances have garnered attention, and he has proven his ability to score in different match situations, whether anchoring the innings or accelerating when required.

Thaker’s batting style is characterized by composure and smart shot selection. He has often played crucial roles in guiding his team through difficult phases in matches. His adaptability and consistency make him a valuable middle-order batsman for Canada.

Off the field, Harsh Thaker is known for his strong work ethic and dedication to improving his skills. He continues to focus on refining his batting technique and has become an inspiration to many young cricketers in Canada. With continued hard work and experience, Thaker is expected to have a successful future in international cricket and could play a significant role in Canada’s cricketing ambitions.

Harsh Thaker was a standout performer for the Janakpur Bolts, the champions of the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season 1. His all-round abilities were instrumental in the Bolts’ successful campaign, making him a key player in their title win.

Harsh Thaker’s Contributions:

  1. Bowling Heroics:
    • Harsh Thaker took an impressive 11 wickets in the tournament, consistently providing crucial breakthroughs for the team.
    • His economical spells and ability to pick up wickets in critical moments were vital in restricting opposition teams throughout the competition.
  2. Batting Contributions:
    • While his primary role was with the ball, Thaker also contributed important runs with the bat. His all-round ability ensured he made significant contributions in pressure situations.
  3. Key to Victory:
    • Thaker’s all-round performances played a crucial role in the team’s journey to the title, especially in the high-stakes knockout matches.
    • His ability to deliver in both departments of the game made him a reliable and versatile player for the Bolts.

Legacy in NPL:

Harsh Thaker’s remarkable performance in Season 1 not only highlighted his individual skill but also demonstrated the value of an impactful all-rounder in a competitive tournament like the NPL. His contributions will be remembered as a driving force behind the Janakpur Bolts’ historic title win.

Chris Sole

Chris Sole

Biography

Christopher Barclay Sole, born on February 27, 1994, in Aberdeen, Scotland, is a prominent right-arm fast bowler and right-handed batsman who has been representing the Scottish national cricket team since 2016. In May 2024, Chris was named in Scotland’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, reflecting his continued importance to the national team.

Early Life and Family Background:

Chris hails from a distinguished sporting family. His father, David Sole, is a celebrated former rugby union player who captained the Scottish national team. His brother, Tom Sole, is also a cricketer who has played for Scotland, underscoring the family’s rich sporting heritage.

Domestic and International Career:

Chris made his first-class debut against the United Arab Emirates in the 2015–17 ICC Intercontinental Cup on August 9, 2016. Shortly thereafter, he earned his One Day International (ODI) cap on August 16, 2016, facing the same opposition. His Twenty20 International (T20I) debut came on January 19, 2017, against Oman during the Desert T20 Challenge.

Throughout his career, Chris has showcased his talent in various domestic leagues. He has been associated with teams such as Hampshire (2017–2018), Saint Lucia Kings (2023), Sharjah Warriors (2024), Glamorgan (2024), and Biratnagar Kings (2024), gaining valuable experience across different formats and conditions.

Chris Sole’s Contributions in NPL 2024:

  1. Bowling Brilliance:
    • Chris Sole was a key wicket-taker for the Biratnagar Kings throughout the tournament.
    • His express pace and ability to generate bounce made him a dangerous bowler in Nepal’s conditions.
    • Sole delivered in crucial moments, breaking partnerships and helping the Kings stay competitive.
  2. Batting Contributions:
    • Although primarily known for his bowling, Sole contributed valuable runs in pressure situations.
    • His lower-order batting performances provided stability and helped the Kings post or chase competitive totals.
  3. Key Moments in the Tournament:
    • Chris Sole’s ability to step up in high-pressure games was evident as he took important wickets in critical matches.
    • His dual contributions with both bat and ball underlined his all-round value to the team.
  4. Impact on the Team’s Performance:
    • Sole’s performances added balance to the Biratnagar Kings, allowing them to compete strongly against tough opponents.
    • Even though the Kings did not win the title, his consistent contributions were widely acknowledged.

Legacy in NPL:

Chris Sole’s participation in the Nepal Premier League highlighted the growing trend of international players making significant contributions in the league. His performances with the Biratnagar Kings not only showcased his individual skill but also helped raise the overall quality of the tournament.

Notable Achievements:

A highlight of Chris’s career was during the World Cup Qualifier in 2023, where he delivered a match-winning opening spell against Zimbabwe. Clocking speeds up to 150 kph, he took 3 wickets for 33 runs, playing a pivotal role in Scotland’s victory.

Playing Style:

Known for his express pace and ability to generate bounce, Chris has been a vital asset for Scotland, especially in limited-overs cricket. His capacity to deliver in high-pressure situations has earned him recognition on the international stage.

Off the Field:

Growing up in a rugby-dominated household, Chris chose to pursue cricket, carving out his own niche in the sporting world. His journey reflects a blend of natural talent and dedication, contributing significantly to Scottish cricket’s progress on the global platform.

Kamal Khatri

Biography

Kamal Khatri is an emerging cricketer who has gained attention for his all-round abilities. A left-handed batman and a left-arm medium pacer, Khatri is known for his ability to contribute in both batting and bowling, making him a versatile player in various formats of the game.

With a skill set that combines solid batting techniques and disciplined bowling, Khatri has been recognized as a promising all-rounder in Nepal’s domestic cricket scene. His versatility and potential earned him a spot in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season 1, 2024, a significant milestone in his career.

Despite being selected for the inaugural season of the NPL, Kamal Khatri did not get the opportunity to play any matches during the tournament. This could have been due to stiff competition within his team or strategic decisions made by the coaching staff. However, his selection itself highlights the trust and belief the team management had in his abilities as an emerging talent.

Being part of a prestigious tournament like the NPL, even without playing, is a testament to his hard work and potential. The exposure to a high-pressure environment, along with the opportunity to train and interact with experienced players, would have provided invaluable learning experiences for Khatri.

As he continues to develop his game, Kamal Khatri will undoubtedly aim to capitalize on future opportunities, both in domestic and international cricket. His selection in the NPL is a stepping stone, and with consistent performances, he could become an integral part of Nepal’s cricketing setup in the years to come.

Overall Contribution

Kamal Khatri’s all-round capabilities have made him a promising talent in domestic cricket. With his ability to balance aggressive batting with disciplined bowling, he is seen as a player with the potential to make a significant impact at higher levels of the game. His left-arm bowling adds a unique angle of attack, while his batting provides depth to any team he represents.

Zeeshan Maqsood

Zeeshan Maqsood

Biography

Zeeshan Maqsood, born on October 24, 1987, in Chichawatni, Punjab, Pakistan, is a Pakistani-born cricketer who plays for the Oman national cricket team and is a former captain of the Oman national team. An all-rounder, he bats left-handed and bowls slow left-arm orthodox spin.

Maqsood’s cricketing journey with Oman began in 2014 when he participated in the ICC World Cricket League Division Four tournament. He made his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut against Afghanistan on July 25, 2015, during the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier. Since then, he has been a pivotal figure in Oman’s rise in international cricket, contributing significantly with both bat and ball.

Maqsood is known for his aggressive style, often opening the innings and setting a solid foundation for his team. His left-arm spin bowling adds depth to his all-round capabilities, making him a versatile player in various formats of the game.

Under his leadership, Oman has achieved notable successes, including victories over established cricketing nations. In January 2022, Maqsood was named the ICC Men’s Associate Cricketer of the Year, recognizing his outstanding performances and contributions to the sport.

Maqsood’s journey from Chichawatni to leading Oman on the international stage is a testament to his dedication and passion for cricket. His leadership and all-round skills continue to inspire many aspiring cricketers, both in Oman and globally.

Nepal Premier League:

Zeeshan Maqsood played a key role for the Karnali Yaks in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. As a left-handed batsman and left-arm orthodox bowler, Maqsood contributed crucial runs and picked important wickets throughout the tournament. His leadership and all-round abilities helped the team win key matches, with his composed batting stabilizing the innings and his smart bowling breaking important partnerships. Maqsood’s contributions were vital in the Yaks’ successful campaign.

Raymon Reifer

Raymon Reifer

Biography

Raymon Anton Reifer, born on May 11, 1991, in Saint Lucy, Barbados, is a distinguished West Indian cricketer renowned for his all-round abilities. He bats left-handed and bowls left-arm medium-fast, contributing significantly to both batting and bowling departments.

Family Legacy:

Raymon hails from a cricketing family with a rich history in the sport. His father, Elvis Reifer, played first-class and List A cricket for Barbados and Hampshire. His cousin, Floyd Reifer, has captained the West Indies in Test and One Day International cricket. His uncles, George and Leslie Reifer, have also represented Barbados in first-class and List A cricket.

Domestic Career:

Reifer began his domestic career as a batting all-rounder but evolved into a genuine left-arm medium-fast bowler over time. He has played for various teams, including the West Indies, Barbados Royals, and Guyana Amazon Warriors in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

International Debut:

He made his Test debut for the West Indies against New Zealand in December 2017. He debuted in One Day Internationals (ODIs) against Bangladesh in May 2019 and in Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) against Australia in October 2022.

Recent Achievements:

In June 2022, Reifer was included in the West Indies Test squad to face Bangladesh, highlighting his growing importance in the national team setup.

Nepal Premier League:

Raymon Reifer also made a notable impact in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 while playing for the Pokhara Avengers. His all-round performance, both with the bat and ball, was key to the team’s success in crucial matches.

As a left-arm medium-fast bowler, Reifer delivered crucial breakthroughs, often striking at vital moments to halt opposition momentum. His ability to bowl in the middle overs and pick up important wickets made him a key asset in the Pokhara Avengers’ bowling attack.

With the bat, Reifer’s calm and composed approach provided stability to the team. Whether it was stabilizing the innings or finishing the game, his contributions with the bat helped the team chase down totals or set competitive targets. His all-round contributions were instrumental in securing vital wins for the Pokhara Avengers in the tournament.

Reifer’s versatility and experience, honed from his international and domestic cricketing career, added great value to the Pokhara Avengers, making him one of the standout players in the Nepal Premier League.

Playing Style:

As a left-handed batsman, Reifer is known for his calm demeanor and ability to anchor the innings. His left-arm medium-fast bowling adds depth to his all-round capabilities, making him a valuable asset in various formats of the game.

Raymon Reifer’s journey from a cricketing family to representing the West Indies on the international stage underscores his dedication and passion for the sport. His all-round performances continue to make him a key figure in West Indies cricket.

Michael Leask

Michael Leask

Michael Alexander Leask, born on October 29, 1990, in Aberdeen, Scotland, is a distinguished Scottish cricketer celebrated for his aggressive right-handed batting and part-time off-spin bowling.

Early Life and Domestic Career: Leask’s cricketing journey began in his youth, representing Scotland at various age levels, including Under-13s, -15s, -17s, and -19s. His dynamic performances at these levels paved the way for his entry into the senior national team. Domestically, he has been a key player for Grange Cricket Club, contributing significantly to their successes in Scottish cricket.

International Career: Leask made his T20 International debut for Scotland against Kenya on July 4, 2013.

He showcased his explosive batting prowess in his third T20I, scoring a rapid 58 runs and forming a century partnership with Matt Machan against the Netherlands in November 2013.

In One Day, Internationals (ODIs), Leask debuted against Canada on January 23, 2014.

Throughout his ODI career, he has been known for his aggressive batting style, often accelerating the scoring in the middle overs.

Playing Style: As a right-handed batsman, Leask is renowned for his ability to hit long sixes, making him a formidable presence in limited-overs formats. His part-time off-spin bowling adds depth to his all-round capabilities, allowing him to contribute with the ball when needed.

Recent Achievements: Leask has been instrumental in Scotland’s performances in various international tournaments, including the ICC World Cup Qualifiers. His aggressive batting and handy off-spin bowling have been crucial in several of Scotland’s victories.

Nepal Premier League (NPL) Involvement: In the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024, Michael Leask played for the Pokhara Avengers. His aggressive batting and handy off-spin bowling were instrumental in the team’s success, contributing significantly to their victories in the tournament.

Michael Leask’s dynamic playing style and consistent performances have established him as a key figure in Scottish cricket, and his contributions continue to inspire aspiring cricketers in Scotland and beyond.

Andries Gous

Andries Gous

Biography

Andries Gustav Stephanus Gous, born on November 24, 1993, in Welkom, Free State, South Africa, is a South African-American cricketer who plays for the Washington Freedom, and the United States national cricket team.  Primarily a right-handed batsman and wicketkeeper, Gous has made significant contributions to the teams. He represents the United States at the international level.

Early Life and Domestic Career

Gous began his cricketing journey in South Africa, where he played for the Free State cricket team. In August 2017, he was named in Jo’burg Giants’ squad for the inaugural season of the T20 Global League. The following month, he scored a century for Free State in the semi-final of the 2017 Africa T20 Cup against Namibia.

Transition to the United States

Motivated by a desire to provide a better life for his family, Gous moved to the United States, where he continued his cricketing career. His performances in domestic leagues and his commitment to the sport have been commendable.

Nepal Premier League (NPL) Involvement:

In the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024, Gous played for the Pokhara Avengers. He made a remarkable impact by scoring the first century of the tournament, an unbeaten 104 runs off 55 balls against the Lions. This innings was pivotal in securing the Pokhara Avengers’ first victory in the NPL. His contributions to the Pokhara Avengers in the NPL 2024 have solidified his reputation as a formidable cricketer on the international stage.

Playing Style:

As a right-handed batsman and wicketkeeper, Gous is known for his aggressive batting style and sharp wicketkeeping skills. His ability to perform under pressure and his versatility have made him a valuable asset to every team he has been part of.

Andries Gous’s journey from South Africa to the United States and his subsequent success in various cricket leagues underscore his dedication and passion for the sport.