SATV, Kathmandu, July 25: Lumbini Lions have taken their first step towards defending their Nepal Premier League (NPL) title by re-signing Namibian international Ruben Trumpelmann as their first overseas player for the new season.
The 28-year-old left-arm fast bowler was named Player of the Tournament during the Lions’ successful campaign last year.
He claimed 15 wickets at an economy rate of 6.72 and an average of 14.93, whilst contributing 41 runs across seven innings—remaining undefeated in four.
Beyond his bowling, he struck a crucial unbeaten 29 off 14 balls, including a boundary and three sixes, in a group-stage match against Karnali Yaks.
Trumpelmann featured in all 10 matches for Lumbini Lions last season and was named Player of the Match in the final against Sudurpaschim Royals, returning figures of 3 for 3 in 2.1 overs.
By dismissing Binod Bhandari and Sheldon Jackson in his opening two overs, he set up his side's victory.
“We have commenced our title defence by bringing Ruben Trumpelmann back to Lumbini Lions. Renewing the contract with a player of his calibre was a mere formality,” said Ishwar GC, Chairman of Lumbini Lions.
“We wish to maintain our legacy, and as an experienced campaigner, he understands the squad inside out. As an established player in Associate cricket, he adapted seamlessly to our environment. We are confident that with him on board, the team will uphold its tradition and reach greater heights.”
Trumpelmann has also featured in the UAE’s International League T20 (ILT20) and Canada’s Global T20 League. He is currently representing Namibia in the Cricket World Cup League 2 series against the Netherlands and Nepal.
Overall, he has taken 77 wickets in 53 One-Day Internationals and 54 wickets in 54 Twenty20 Internationals for his national side.
The defending champions have retained marquee player and captain Rohit Paudel, alongside Sundeep Jora, Sher Malla, Dilip Nath, Tilak Raj Bhandari, Dinesh Adhikari, and Abhishek Gautam.
Additionally, the franchise acquired Aasif Sheikh, Kishor Mahato, Aakash Tripathi, Durgesh Gupta, Araniko Yadav, and Ajay Chauhan during the NPL auction.
