Kathmandu, December 3
Sudurpaschim Royals delivered a commanding performance, defeating Biratnagar Kings by 90 runs to make a spectacular start in the Nepal Premier League (NPL).
Chasing a massive target of 183 runs set by Sudurpaschim, Biratnagar Kings were bowled out for just 92. Basir Ahmed top-scored with 24 runs, while Nicholas Kirton and Chris Sole contributed 15 and 10 runs, respectively. None of the other players managed to reach double figures.
This marks Biratnagar’s second consecutive loss in the tournament, following their 8-wicket defeat to Janakpur Bolts in the previous match.
Sudurpaschim’s dominant performance extended to both batting and bowling. Avinash Bohora and Scott Kuggeleijn led the bowling attack with three wickets each, while Brandon McMullen, Ishan Pandey, and Saif Zaib picked up one wicket each.
Earlier, Sudurpaschim were invited to bat first after losing the toss and posted a strong total of 182/7, thanks to captain Dipendra Singh Airee’s explosive knock. Airee remained unbeaten on 57 runs off just 24 balls, smashing 3 fours and 5 sixes, including two consecutive sixes in the final over. He completed his half-century with a six off Pratish GC in the penultimate ball of the innings.
Other notable contributions came from Brandon McMullen (36), Binod Bhandari (23), Ishan Pandey (21), and Saif Zaib (14).
For Biratnagar, Anil Kharel claimed three wickets, while Chris Sole, Ismat Alam, and Basir Ahmed picked up one wicket each.
Sudurpaschim’s comprehensive victory highlights their strength in the tournament as they aim for continued success.
