Kings’ Late Charge Stuns Karnali

Biratnagar Kings pulled off a dramatic three-wicket victory over Karnali Yaks in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Friday, November 28.

Chasing a target of 161, the Kings found themselves in trouble at 65 for five in 12 overs. However, Basir Ahamad’s fearless knock turned the tide. Needing four runs off the last two balls, Ahamad smashed the penultimate delivery for a six, sealing a thrilling win for Biratnagar. He finished unbeaten with 62 runs off 43 balls, including three sixes and as many fours, earning him the Player of the Match award.

Narayan Joshi, who arrived at the crease as the seventh batsman, made crucial 25 off 16 balls, striking a six and two fours to keep Biratnagar in contention. Contributions from Sahil Patel (19) and Sam Heazlett (16) also proved important. Biratnagar benefited from 21 extra runs, including nine byes, five wides, six leg byes, and a no-ball.

Skipper Sompal Kami and Gulshan Jha picked up two wickets each for the Yaks.

Batting first, Karnali posted 160 on the board, losing three wickets in 20 overs. Opener Priyank Panchal top-scored with 63 off 47 balls, while William Bosisto contributed 48 runs off as many deliveries. Gulshan Jha added a quickfire 20 off 10 balls. For Biratnagar, Captain Sandeep Lamichhane and Marchant de Lange claimed one wicket each.

The win marked Biratnagar’s fourth victory in five matches, placing them second on the points table. Sudurpaschim Royals remain unbeaten at the top, also with eight points but a superior net run rate.

Karnali Yaks, meanwhile, are fifth with just two points from four matches.

Saturday, November 29, promises more action with another double-header. Pokhara Avengers and Lumbini Lions, currently sixth and seventh on the table, respectively, will clash in the first match. The second match will see table-topper Sudurpaschim Royals take on the winless defending champion Janakpur Bolts. The Bolts have lost all three of their matches so far this season.