Biratnagar Secures 51-Run Victory Over Chitwan

Biratnagar Kings defeated Chitwan Rhinos by 51 runs in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, on Friday, December 13, climbing to fifth place in the standings.

With four points each, the Kings, Kathmandu Gurkhas, and Pokhara Avengers are tied on the table. However, Biratnagar holds a superior position due to a better net run rate. The Gurkhas and Avengers, however, have played one game less than the Kings.

Chitwan stands fourth on the table with three wins in six matches. 

The tournament follows a round-robin format where each team plays against the others once. The top four teams advance to the playoffs. Janakpur Bolts have already secured a playoff spot, while Lumbini Lions have been eliminated with only one win in seven matches.

Chasing a target of 182, Chitwan Rhinos could only manage 130 runs in their allotted 20 overs, losing six wickets.

Amar Routela top-scored for Chitwan with 42 runs off 29 balls, including two sixes and three fours. Santosh Karki contributed 28 runs, while captain Kushal Malla and Ravi Bopara added 25 and 20 runs, respectively.

For Biratnagar, Sandeep Lamichhane led the bowling attack with two wickets. Chris Sole, Basir Ahamed, Subash Bhandari, and Lokesh Bam each took one wicket.

Earlier, Biratnagar posted a competitive total of 181 runs in 20 overs, led by Basir Ahamed’s unbeaten 68 off 44 balls, which included four sixes and four fours. Martin Guptill added 45 runs, while Rajesh Pulami contributed 33.

For the Rhinos, Rijan Dhakal picked up two wickets, while captain Kushal Malla, Sohail Tanvir, and Basil Hameed claimed one wicket each.

Ahamad was declared the player of the match for his all-round performance.