Lumbini Lions is a professional T20 cricket franchise representing Lumbini Province in the Nepal T20 League (NepalT20). Named after the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, the Lumbini Lions blend regional pride, sportsmanship, and youthful energy to form one of the most exciting teams in Nepal’s growing franchise cricket ecosystem.

Overview

• Full Team Name: Lumbini Lions

• Founded: 2022

• League: Nepal T20 League (NepalT20)

• City Represented: Lumbini (Based in Butwal/Bhairahawa region)

• Home Ground: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur (for league play)

• Franchise Owner: Diamond Dig Marketing Pvt. Ltd.

• Team Colors: Yellow and Orange

• Coach: Peter Trego (England)

• Captain (2022–23): Kushal Bhurtel (Nepal)

Participation in Nepal T20 League

The Lumbini Lions debuted in the inaugural season of the Nepal T20 League in 2022–23, bringing fresh energy and competitive fire to the tournament.

 Season Performance

• Reached the final of the Nepal T20 League 2022–23, finishing as runners-up

• Consistent team performance driven by youth and smart tactics

• Gained praise for developing young Nepali talent and playing fearless cricket

Key Players

 Kushal Bhurtel (Captain)

• Explosive opener and current Nepal national team player

• Known for aggressive starts and fearless batting

 Harry Tector (Ireland)

• International middle-order batter with calm presence and finishing ability

• Brought European professionalism to the side

 Dipendra Singh Airee

• Star all-rounder, renowned for both big hitting and spin control

• One of the top performers in the league

 Kamal Singh Airee

• Emerging young pacer with sharp bounce and control

• Crucial in powerplays and death overs

Coaching and Management

• Head Coach: Peter Trego, former English all-rounder with T20 league experience

• Focused on high-intensity cricket, strategic match planning, and player development

• Strong local management support with a vision to promote cricket across Lumbini Province

Playing Style

The Lumbini Lions are known for:

• Fast-paced batting, especially in the powerplay

• Balanced bowling attack with spin and pace options

• Emphasis on fielding agility and fitness

They combine young domestic talent with international experience for dynamic, adaptable cricket.

Regional Identity and Fan Support

Lumbini Lions carry the pride of Bhairahawa, Butwal, and Rupandehi District, symbolizing:

• Peaceful origins (Lumbini as Lord Buddha’s birthplace)

• Modern competitive spirit through sports

• Commitment to developing western Nepal’s cricket ecosystem

Fan Base

• Strong support from Lumbini Province youth

• High engagement across social media, especially Facebook and TikTok

• Fans known for their loyalty, creativity, and cultural pride

Community Goals

• Plans to build a regional cricket academy in Lumbini Province

• Grassroots programs to train youth from rural areas

• Host cricket festivals and clinics in Butwal and Bhairahawa once home venues are approved

Trivia

• Lumbini Lions were the runners-up in the first-ever Nepal T20 League, narrowly missing the title in 2023.

• Their coach Peter Trego played in England’s county circuit for over a decade and brought valuable T20 insight.

• Lumbini Lions is one of the few teams that heavily promoted peace and power as dual themes of their brand identity.