KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 11
Lumbini Lions suffered an 18-run defeat to Kathmandu Gurkhas, becoming the first team eliminated from the Nepal Premier League (NPL) T20 tournament.
In the match held at the TU International Cricket Ground, Lumbini failed to chase a modest target of 104 runs, collapsing to 85 all out in 19.2 overs. Sandeep Zora top-scored for Lumbini with 26 runs.
Kathmandu's bowling attack was spearheaded by captain Karan KC, who claimed four wickets, while Dipesh Kandel and Jehard Erasmus contributed with three and two wickets, respectively.
Skipper Karan KC was adjudged man-of-the-match for his match winning spell of 4-0-16-4.
Earlier, Kathmandu opted to bat first after winning the toss and posted a total of 103 runs in 19.2 overs. Bhim Sarki led the scoring with a steady 31, supported by Dan Douthwaite's 21. On the bowling front, Saad Bin Zafar claimed three wickets for Lumbini, with Abhishesh Gautam and Ramon Simmonds taking two each.
This defeat leaves Lumbini with just two points from six matches, including five losses and one win, sealing their exit from the tournament with one league game remaining.
The victory propelled Kathmandu to fifth place on the points table, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
Looking ahead, Pokhara Avengers will face Biratnagar Kings in the first match tomorrow at 9:00 AM, followed by Janakpur Bolts taking on Kathmandu Gurkhas in the afternoon fixture at 1:00 PM.
