The Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2026 has suffered another weather-related disruption after the scheduled encounter between Lumbini Lions and Chitwan Rhinos was called off due to persistent rainfall in Kirtipur.
The match, part of the tournament's third edition, could not proceed after continuous rain left the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground waterlogged and unsuitable for play.
Persistent Rain Forces Match Cancellation
Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) Secretary Paras Khadka confirmed the decision, citing unfavourable weather conditions and the waterlogged state of the playing venue.
Rainfall that began on Thursday night continued into Friday, leaving the ground in a condition that prevented the scheduled fixture from taking place.
With the match abandoned without a result, Lumbini Lions and Chitwan Rhinos have each been awarded one point in accordance with the tournament's points allocation for abandoned matches.
The shared points could influence the teams' positions in the league standings as the competition progresses.
Biratnagar Kings vs Sudurpaschim Royals Also Under Threat
The weather disruption could extend to Friday's second scheduled fixture, featuring Biratnagar Kings and Sudurpaschim Royals.
The evening encounter is scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM at the same venue. However, continued rainfall has raised concerns about whether conditions will improve sufficiently for the match to proceed.
The fate of the second fixture remains uncertain, with weather conditions and the state of the ground expected to play a decisive role.
Rain Adds Uncertainty to NPL 2026 Schedule
The latest washout highlights the challenges posed by unpredictable weather during Nepal's premier franchise T20 competition.
While Lumbini Lions and Chitwan Rhinos leave the abandoned fixture with a point each, attention now shifts to the evening encounter and whether the weather will allow the tournament's scheduled action to resume.