Chitwan Rhinos defeated Sudurpaschim Royals by 33 runs in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Sunday, December 8.
The Royals, previously unbeaten after playing against Biratnagar Kings, Kathmandu Gurkhas, and Lumbini Lions, suffered their first defeat of the tournament. Both the Lions and the Royals now have six points from four matches, but the Royals hold a higher position in the standings due to a superior net run rate.
Chasing a target of 165, the Royals were bowled out for 131 in 18.2 overs. Ishan Pandey top-scored for the Royals with 35 runs off 19 balls, including four boundaries and a six, while Saif Zaib contributed 18 runs from 11 balls.
Chitwan’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Kushal Malla, Jean Nicol Leask, Rijan Dhakal, and Amar Rautela, who each claimed two wickets. Sohail Tanvir and Ranjit Kumal chipped in with one wicket each to secure the victory.
Earlier, after winning the toss and electing to bat, the Rhinos posted a total of 164 for five. Opener Hassan Eishakhil led the charge with a brilliant 65 off 52 balls, hitting six boundaries and three sixes. Ravi Bopara added a quickfire 36 off 18 balls, smashing two fours and two sixes, while skipper Kushal Malla and Bipin Rawal contributed 13 and 17 runs, respectively.
Scott Kuggeleijn was the standout bowler for Sudurpaschim, taking two wickets, while Dipendra Singh Airee, Brandon McMullen, and Saif Zaib claimed one wicket each.
Eishakhil was declared the player of the match.
In the earlier match of the day, Janakpur Bolts extended their unbeaten streak to four matches, climbing to the top of the table with a nail-biting 1-run victory over Lumbini Lions in a low-scoring thriller.
There will be no NPL matches on Monday, December 9. However, the tournament resumes on Tuesday with a doubleheader. Chitwan Rhinos will face Lumbini Lions in the first match, followed by a clash between Karnali Yaks and Pokhara Avengers later in the day.
