Chitwan Rhinos is a professional cricket franchise team representing Chitwan District in Nepal’s Everest Premier League (EPL). Known for their consistent performances, big-name players, and passionate fanbase, the Rhinos are one of the most successful and respected cricket teams in Nepal’s franchise cricket history.

Overview

• Full Team Name: Chitwan Rhinos

• Founded: 2017

• League: Everest Premier League (EPL)

• Home City: Bharatpur, Chitwan, Nepal

• Home Ground: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur

• Team Colors: Red and White

• Franchise Owner: Gold Sports Pvt. Ltd.

• Captain (last known): Sompal Kami

• Coach: Umesh Patwal (former head coach of Nepal National Cricket Team)

Everest Premier League (EPL) Participation

The Everest Premier League is Nepal’s top-tier professional T20 competition, featuring six major city-based franchises. Since the inception of the league, Chitwan Rhinos have been among the top-performing teams.

Season Highlights

• EPL 2017: Strong group-stage performances, semifinalists

• EPL 2018: Runners-up, losing narrowly in the final

• EPL 2021: Champions – crowned Everest Premier League winners, defeating Pokhara Rhinos in the final

Chitwan Rhinos lifted the trophy for the first time in 2021, cementing their legacy as a powerhouse of Nepali franchise cricket.

Star Players

 Sompal Kami (Captain)

• Nepal’s premier fast bowler and an explosive lower-order batsman

• Captain and talismanic figure for the team

 Mohammad Shahzad (Afghanistan)

• Hard-hitting wicket-keeper batsman

• Star foreign recruit, known for match-winning innings

 Anil Sah

• Young, aggressive opening batsman

• Key domestic performer for the Rhinos

 Lalit Rajbanshi

• Left-arm orthodox spinner who anchors the bowling attack

Playing Style and Strengths

Chitwan Rhinos’ cricketing philosophy focuses on:

• Aggressive batting at the top

• Tight bowling units — especially with quality seam and spin options

• Dynamic fielding standards

They combine local rising stars with international match-winners, creating a balanced and dangerous T20 side.

Fanbase and Brand Identity

Chitwan Rhinos symbolize the spirit of Chitwan District, which is famous for:

• Chitwan National Park — home of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros

• Pride, power, and protection, qualities reflected in the team’s identity

Fan Engagement

• Strong following from Bharatpur, Sauraha, and surrounding areas

• Active on social media platforms with fan contests and live interactions

• One of the most marketable franchises due to their strong brand story and regional loyalty

Challenges

• Maintaining consistency in squad selection year-to-year

• Continuing to develop local players alongside relying on international stars

• Preparing for future expansion if EPL or new T20 leagues grow in Nepal

Future Goals

• Defend their EPL title

• Expand influence by developing cricket academies in Chitwan

• Continue to nurture young talents who can feed into Nepal’s national team

Trivia

• The “Rhinos” name is inspired by the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros, native to Chitwan National Park.

• Chitwan Rhinos are the first team from the Terai region to win the Everest Premier League.

• They were among the few EPL franchises to successfully blend foreign aggression (Shahzad) with local resilience (Kami, Sah).