Kathmandu, December 15
Kathmandu Gurkhas kept their slim playoff hopes alive in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) with a dramatic one-wicket victory over Biratnagar Kings. With this win in their final league match, Kathmandu accumulated 8 points from 7 games, placing them fifth in the standings. However, their chances of making the playoffs hinge on the outcome of Monday’s match between Karnali Yaks and Sudurpaschim.
Kathmandu’s qualification to the top four will depend on Sudurpaschim defeating Karnali by a margin of more than 53 runs, which would allow Kathmandu to surpass Karnali on net run rate. Until then, Kathmandu must wait for the final league match to decide their fate.
Chasing a target of 118 runs set by Biratnagar, Kathmandu completed the chase in 18.1 overs, although they faced a few nervy moments. An aggressive start gave them an early advantage, but wickets falling in quick succession caused them to falter in the middle overs. Deepesh Kandel ultimately sealed the victory with a boundary on the first ball of the 19th over. Pratik Shrestha was Kathmandu’s top scorer with 39 runs, while Shankar Rana remained unbeaten on 16. Rashid Khan, Gerhard Erasmus, and Michael Levit also made valuable contributions.
Biratnagar’s bowling attack was led by Sandeep Lamichhane, who took three wickets for 19 runs in his four overs. Anil Kharel, Basir Ahmad, and Chris Sole each claimed two wickets, keeping the game competitive until the end.
Earlier, Biratnagar, batting first at TU International Cricket Ground after losing the toss, posted 117 runs in 19.5 overs. Rajesh Pulami top-scored with 25 runs, while Dipak Bohara and Scott Edwards added 20 and 15 runs respectively. Basir Ahmad chipped in with 13, but no other batter managed to reach double digits.
Kathmandu’s bowlers ensured a disciplined performance, with Gerhard Erasmus taking three wickets and Deepesh Kandel picking up two. Shahab Alam, Karan KC, and Don Douthwaite each took a wicket as well, restricting Biratnagar to a modest total.
Kathmandu’s playoff hopes now rest on Monday’s game, which will determine whether they can advance to the next stage.
