Kathmandu, December 11
Janakpur Bolts faced their first defeat in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) as Sudurpaschim claimed a commanding 72-run victory on Wednesday. Sudurpaschim’s spinners delivered a lethal performance, dismantling Janakpur’s batting lineup while defending a modest target of 124 runs.
Chasing 124, Janakpur crumbled under Sudurpaschim’s deadly bowling, getting bowled out for just 51 runs in 12.1 overs. Apart from Joshua Tromp’s 13, no other Janakpur batter managed to reach double digits.
After winning their first four matches convincingly, this loss leaves Janakpur still waiting to secure a playoff berth. Both Janakpur and Sudurpaschim now have eight points from five games, with Sudurpaschim leading the standings on net run rate.
Sudurpaschim’s bowlers were outstanding, with Harmit Singh, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Ishan Pandey taking two wickets each. Saif Zaib and Naren Saud chipped in with one wicket apiece, while Scott Kuggeleijn struck on his very first delivery.
Earlier, Sudurpaschim managed to post 123/9 in their 20 overs after being put in to bat at TU International Cricket Ground. Binod Bhandari top-scored with 33 runs, while Saif Zaib (21), Ishan Pandey (17), and Brandon McMullen (11) contributed valuable runs. The innings faltered after a 55-run opening stand between Saif Zaib and Binod Bhandari, with wickets falling at regular intervals.
Janakpur’s bowlers put up a good fight, with Kishore Mahato taking four wickets for 35 runs in his four overs. Sher Malla (2/19) and Araniko Yadav (2/16) provided strong support.
With this win, Sudurpaschim climbed to the top of the table, edging out Janakpur on net run rate. Both teams now await their remaining fixtures to solidify playoff positions.
