Himalayan News Service

Jhapa, May 19:

Manoj Katuwal scored a half century as Yeti Airlines defeated Eastern Cricket Academy by 60 runs and advanced to the final of the third Binesh Burma Memorial National Cricket Tournament, here at Mechi Stadium today.

In Saturday’s final, Yeti Airlines will take on Khukuri Cricket Club of Bhairahawa, who beat East West Overseas of Kathmandu by eight runs in Wednesday’s semi-final.

Electing to bat first after winning the toss, Yeti Airlines were bowled out for 168 runs in 48.2 overs. Yeti started badly and lost four wickets for 44 runs in 15 overs.

After losing the fifth, the Kathmandu-based team played cautiously and managed 168 runs.

Man of the match Manoj Katuwal top-scored with unbeaten 74 off 131 balls. Paras Khadka scored 20 runs and opener Paresh Lohani contributed 15 runs, while other batsmen failed to reach the double figure mark.

For Eastern Academy, Sarbesh Shrestha and Lal Babu Sharma claimed two wickets each, whereas Manjit Shrestha, Kushal Tuladhar and Ayush Shrestha pocketed one wicket apiece.

In reply, Eastern Academy were packed off for 108 runs in 36.2 overs. The day was even worse for Eastern Academy players as four of their batsmen were out for a duck. Manjit Shrestha top-scored in the innings with 37 runs. Ajay Rajbanshi and Pushpa Thapa contributed 15 and 12 runs respectively.

For Yeti Airlines, seamer Binod Das led the bowling attack and returned with 3-12 off seven overs, while left-arm spinner Raju Basnet supported ably taking 3-20 off 6.2 overs. Paras Khadka got two and Abhaya Rana claimed one wicket.