The Sudurpaschim Royals secured a commanding victory over the Biratnagar Kings in the 4th match of the Nepal Premier League held at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, Kathmandu.
Batting first, the Royals posted an imposing total of 182/7 in their allotted 20 overs, setting a challenging target of 183 runs. In response, the Biratnagar Kings faltered, managing only 92 runs in 16.1 overs, falling short by 90 runs.
The Royals' innings was anchored by skipper Dipendra Singh Airee, who played a blistering knock of 57 off just 24 balls, including 3 fours and 5 sixes at an astonishing strike rate of 237.50. Brandon McMullen contributed a valuable 36 off 26 balls, while Binod Bhandari chipped in with 23 runs. Anil Kharel was the standout bowler for the Kings, claiming 3 wickets for 26 runs in his four-over spell.
The Kings’ chase began on a shaky note, with their top order crumbling under pressure. Wickets fell at regular intervals, and none of the batters managed to build a substantial partnership. Lokesh Bam (2), Martin Guptill (0), and Nicholas Kirton (5) departed early. Aarif Sheikh showed some resistance with a brisk 36, but it wasn’t enough to pose a threat. Brandon McMullen and Scott Kuggeleijn led the Royals’ bowling attack, picking up crucial wickets to dismantle the Kings' batting lineup.
