KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 27
Sudurpaschim Royals extended their winning streak by defeating Lumbini Lions, while Pokhara Avengers secured their first victory of the ongoing Nepal Premier League in Kathmandu today.
With the win, Sudurpaschim remain at the top of the eight-team table with eight points from four matches, maintaining an unbeaten record. Pokhara Avengers, meanwhile, sit in sixth position with two points, level with Karnali Yaks but behind on net run rate.
Sudurpaschim Royals won the toss and elected to bowl first, restricting Lumbini Lions to 143 all out before cruising to a seven-wicket victory with seven balls to spare.
Opening batsman Binod Bhandari anchored the chase with a composed 69 not out off 49 balls, featuring five boundaries and four sixes, to guide his team home. He was later named Player of the Match for his match-winning innings.
Promoted up the order, Aarif Sheikh contributed a steady 39 off 37 balls, hitting four boundaries and one six.
In the other match of the day, Pokhara Avengers recorded a 25-run victory over defending champions Janakpur Bolts, who slumped to their third consecutive defeat. Pokhara won the toss and opted to bat first, posting a competitive 155/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Sumeet Verma starred with both bat and ball for Pokhara, smashing an unbeaten 50 off 29 balls, including two boundaries and four towering sixes.
Openers Dinesh Kharel and Adam Rossington provided a solid platform with a 50-run opening stand. Kharel struck a run-a-ball 38, while Rossington added 24 off 17 deliveries with three boundaries.
Verma later claimed two wickets and was adjudged Player of the Match for his all-round performance.
In tomorrow's fixtures, Kathmandu Gorkhas face Chitwan Rhinos, while Biratnagar Kings take on Karnali Yaks under lights at TU Cricket Stadium in Kirtipur.
