Two matches are slated for Monday at the ongoing Nepal Premier League after a day’s break. Biratnagar Kings play Janakpur Bolts, while Sudurpaschim Royals take on Karnali Yaks in the matches that could shape the early playoff race.

Both Biratnagar and Sudurpaschim have won their opening two matches, and another victory would strengthen their push for a playoff spot. Biratnagar defeated Pokhara Avengers and Kathmandu Gorkhas, while Janakpur were stunned by the Gorkhas in their first outing. The inclusion of Scotland’s George Munsey, South African bowler Marchant de Lange and US all-rounder Shubham Ranjane has further boosted Biratnagar.

Biratnagar that missed the playoffs last season have signalled stronger intent this year. De Lange took two wickets for 17 runs from four overs and was named player of the match against the Gorkhas, while Munsey struck 36 off 16 balls. South Africa’s Faf du Plessis, previously announced by the franchise, has yet to arrive.

Head coach Pubudu Dassanayake has also not joined the dugout, though Sri Lankan coach Dhammika Prasad has guided the side to an impressive start, placing clear emphasis on local players. Opener Lokesh Bam scored 72 off 48 balls with seven sixes against Pokhara.

Janakpur, meanwhile, appeared to miss star all-rounder Jimmy Neesham and Dassanayake in their loss to the Gorkhas. Neesham moved to Pokhara after Janakpur failed to secure a Test-cap slot. Janakpur have brought in West Indies batting great Shivnarine Chanderpaul as head coach, the biggest name in this year’s NPL, though his impact remains to be seen. With heavy dependence on foreign players across teams, Janakpur need big contributions from Nicol Loftie-Eaton and Sanjay Krishnamurthi, while captain Anil Sah must anchor the batting. Aside from Kishore Mahato, Rupesh Singh and Lalit Rajbanshi, the side lacks depth in bowling.

Under Dipendra Singh Airee’s captaincy, Sudurpaschim have shown strong form. Against the Gorkhas, they recovered from three runs for three wickets to post 147 and win.

They then beat Karnali by 18 runs, continuing their form from last season. Airee, along with Binod Bhandari, Hemant Dhami, Josh Brown, Chris Lynn, Harmeet Singh and Scott Kuggeleijn, have made the side one of the strongest in the competition. If Arif Sheikh and Ishan Pandey find middle-order rhythm, opponents will struggle to contain Sudurpaschim.

Karnali were stunned by Chitwan Rhinos in their first match, despite scoring 166 after Indian batter Priyank Panchal smashed 90 off 48 balls. Chitwan chased the target with five balls to spare. Karnali then staged a strong comeback, defeating Lumbini Lions by nine wickets after Mark Watt’s unbeaten 114 off 44 balls helped chase 157 inside 13 overs.

Chitwan, despite looking strong early, lost their last match to Lumbini. Kathmandu won their first match but have since lost two. Lumbini have one win and one defeat. Pokhara have lost both matches so far.