Janakpur Bolts tasted their first loss in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Wednesday, December 11, falling to Sudur Paschim Royals by 72 runs at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

Prior to this match, Janakpur had remained unbeaten against Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, Karnali Yaks, and Biratnagar Kings. The victory propelled Sudur Paschim Royals to the top of the points table with 8 points from 5 matches, surpassing Janakpur on net run rate, who also have 8 points.

Chasing a target of 124 runs set by the Royals, Janakpur Bolts were bowled out for a mere 51 runs in 12.1 overs—the lowest total in NPL. The previous record was held by Pokhara Avengers, who were all out for 74 runs against Chitwan Rhinos.

Only Joshua Tromp (13) reached double figures for Janakpur, with the rest of the batsmen failing to make an impact. Lahiru Milantha (7), Harsh Thakar (5), Jimmy Nisam (4), Shubh Kansakar (0), Arniko Yadav (1), Sher Malla (0), and Lalit Rajbanshi (4) were all dismissed cheaply. Kishore Mahato remained unbeaten on 0 from 11 balls.

For Sudur Paschim, Harmeet Singh, Ishan Pandey, and Dipendra Singh Airee each took two wickets, while Naren Saud, Saif Ali Zaib, and Scott Kuggeleijn claimed one wicket each.

Earlier, after being put in to bat, Sudur Paschim Royals posted 123 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their 20 overs. 

Opener Binod Bhandari top-scored with 33 runs from 37 balls, including three fours and a six. Saif Ali Zaib contributed 21, Ishan Pandey made 17, and Brandon McMullen added 11. The remaining batsmen failed to reach double figures.

Kishore Mahato was the standout bowler for Janakpur, claiming four wickets. Sher Malla and Arniko Yadav each took two wickets, while Harsh Thakar bagged one.

Meanwhile, the second match between Kathmandu Gurkhas and Lumbini Lions is currently underway.