KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 12
In a nail-biting encounter, Pokhara Avengers secured a thrilling victory against Biratnagar Kings by 13 runs in the first-ever super over of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, on Thursday.
Chasing the target of 140, Pokhara Avengers managed 139 for the loss of six wickets in 20 overs. Andres Gaus led the charge with a top score of 39 runs, while Raymond Reifer contributed 34 runs and captain Kushal Bhurtel added 31. Biratnagar's Prithu Baskota was the pick of the bowlers, claiming four wickets, and Chris Sole supported with two.
This marked the first super-over match in the NPL.
In the tense super over, Pokhara batted first, scoring 18 runs. Ramon Reifer shined with the bat, scoring 16 runs, including two sixes and a boundary off the bowling of Sandeep Lamichhane.
Biratnagar's chase faltered as they struggled to build momentum. With Martin Guptill and Nicholas Kirton managing only five runs, Reifer's tight bowling sealed the victory for Pokhara.
Ramon Reifer's exceptional performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
Earlier in the day, Biratnagar Kings set a competitive score of 139 runs for seven wickets in their innings. Scott Edwards was instrumental, scoring 45 runs off 35 balls, complemented by five boundaries. Lokesh Bam and Basir Ahmed chipped in with 26 and 21 runs, respectively. Pokhara's bowlers, especially Reifer and Sagar Dhakal, who both took two wickets, effectively contained the opposition.
The second match of the day features Kathmandu Gurkhas taking on Janakpur Bolts.