In a thrilling low-scoring match, the Kathmandu Gurkhas edged past the Biratnagar Kings by one wicket to keep their NPL playoff hopes alive, though the chances remain slim.
Despite the win, the Gurkhas sit fifth in the standings with eight points from seven matches, tied with the Sudurpaschim Royals, Chitwan Rhinos, and Karnali Yaks. These teams occupy second to fifth positions based on net run rate.
The Royals, with two games remaining, are up against the already-eliminated Pokhara Avengers at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. A win today guarantees the Royals a playoff spot, but even a loss would give them another chance against the Yaks on Monday, December 16.
The Yaks now find themselves in a precarious position. A heavy loss against the Royals could see their net run rate dip, potentially dropping them to fifth place and opening the door for the Gurkhas to secure a playoff berth.
Meanwhile, a playoff spot has been secured for the Chitwan Rhinos, as no result from the remaining matches can push them below fourth place on the table. Current table-toppers Janakpur Bolts, with 10 points from seven matches, have also booked their playoff berth.
Chasing a modest target of 118 in 20 overs, the Gurkhas struggled to 102/9 by the 17th over. However, Shankar Rana (16 off 20) and Dipesh Kandel (11 off 5) kept their composure, with Kandel sealing the win in style by hitting a boundary off the first ball of the 19th over when just two runs were needed.
In the Gurkhas’ innings, Pratik Shrestha played a crucial knock of 39 runs, while Rashid Khan contributed 14. The Kings’ bowlers, led by Sandeep Lamichhane with three wickets, put up a strong fight, with Anil Kharel, Basir Ahamad, and Chris Sole taking two wickets each.
Earlier, the Kings posted a modest 118 runs in 19.5 overs, with Rajesh Pulami (25), Deepak Bohara (20), Scott Edwards (15), Basir Ahamad (13), and Nicholas Kirton (12) making modest contributions. Gerhard Erasmus shone with the ball for the Gurkhas, taking three wickets, while Kandel picked up two. Shahab Alam, Karan KC, and Dan Douthwaite each chipped in with one wicket.
Dipesh Kandel’s all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
(This news has been updated.)
