Lumbini Lions finally roared to life in the Nepal Premier League (NPL), breaking their losing streak and securing a 33-run victory over Chitwan Rhinos at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Tuesday, December 10.

Captain Rohit Paudel’s stellar all-round performance was instrumental in the win. 

Chasing a target of 168 runs set by the Lions, the Rhinos managed only 134 for eight in their 20 overs.

Luc Benkenstein top-scored for Rhinos with 31 runs, while captain Kushal Malla contributed 20 runs, including a boundary and a six, off 17 balls. Ravi Bopara added 12 runs off 16 balls.

For Lions, Paudel claimed four wickets,while Ramon Simmonds picked up two and Saad Bin Zafar and Abhisesh Gautam grabbed one each.

Earlier, Lions, after being sent to bat, posted 167 runs for six in their allotted 20 overs.

Saad Bin Zafar provided crucial support, remaining unbeaten on 52 off 35 balls with four boundaries and a six. Contributions from Arjun Saud (15) and Tom Moores (10) added to the total. 

For Chitwan, Rijan Dhakal impressed with three wickets, while captain Kushal Malla and Ranjit Kumar took one wicket each.

This win lifts Lumbini Lions to fifth place in the standings after defeats in their earlier matches against Biratnagar Kings, Pokhara Avengers, Sudurpaschim Royals, and Janakpur Bolts.

Chitwan Rhinos, despite the loss, remain in third place with three wins and two defeats. Janakpur Bolts lead the table, maintaining an unbeaten record in the tournament so far.