Annapurna Spiker Kings Claim NVL Title, Avenge Defeat Against Karnali
The Annapurna Spiker Kings clinched the inaugural title of the Extreme Energy Drink Nepal Volleyball League (NVL) by defeating Karnali Shivraj 3–0 in straight sets. Annapurna secured victory with scores of 25–15, 25–20, and 25–17, earning a prize of NPR 2 million, the largest sum awarded in Nepal’s domestic volleyball history. The final’s second set witnessed a dispute over a referee’s decision, leading Karnali players and officials to leave the court temporarily, but the team returned after mediation by Nepal Volleyball Association officials.
On September 13, Kathmandu – The Annapurna Spiker Kings avenged their league-stage loss to Karnali Shivraj by winning the NVL’s first edition championship. The final, held on Friday at the covered hall of Dashrath Rangashala in Tripureshwor, saw Annapurna emerge as the first champions with a straight-set 3–0 victory over Karnali. Mongolian players Uranbayar Munkhbayer, Enkh Erden Jargalsoto, and Turmandakh Gankhuyag delivered outstanding performances, while captain Himal Sunar led Annapurna to maintain consistent pressure on Karnali throughout the match.
A controversy erupted in the second set of the final regarding a referee’s decision. With Annapurna leading 5–2, first referee Vijay KC awarded a point to Annapurna, which Karnali captain Pehal Ghartaraj and other players contested. Subsequently, players, coaches, and team officials of Karnali left the court, resulting in a brief protest. However, Nepal Volleyball Association Vice President Bharat Bahadur Shah and league integrity officer Shravan Kumar reconciled the parties, prompting Karnali to return to the court.
Annapurna’s title triumph was marked by a remarkable comeback. After losing to Karnali Shivraj in the opening match, their fortunes changed with the recruitment of three Mongolian national team players. The team went on to win five consecutive matches, ultimately lifting the trophy. Following a straight-set win over Kathmandu Reds that restored their momentum, Annapurna defeated Madhesh Warriors 3–1, Khaptad Falcons Sudurpashim 3–0, and in a decisive league match, Sagarmatha Smashers 3–1 to qualify directly for the final. Key contributors in the championship run included Himal Sunar, Surendra KC, Jitbahadur Sharki, Dev Rana, and Japan’s Ravi KC.