Gorkhas Secure Playoff Spot with Victory Over Avengers

Kathmandu Gorkhas booked their place in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025 playoffs after defeating Pokhara Avengers by 13 runs at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Thursday, December 4.

Having completed all seven of their league matches, the Gorkhas now sit second on the points table with 10 points. Topping the table are the undefeated Sudurpashchim Royals, who also have 10 points but a superior net run rate. The Royals, the first team to secure a playoff berth this season, are currently defending a total of 170 against the Chitwan Rhinos, who are sixth on the table with just two wins from five matches. A defeat against the Royals could significantly reduce the Rhinos’ chances of finishing in the top four.

Pokhara’s loss to Kathmandu dealt a serious blow to their own playoff hopes. With only two wins from six matches, the Avengers are fifth on the table with four points. They will face Chitwan Rhinos in their final league match on Saturday.

Chasing a target of 166 runs, Pokhara were bowled out for 152. Rishi Dhawan top-scored with 54, followed by Dhananjaya Lakshan (30), captain Kushal Bhurtel (22), and Jason Roy (15). No other batter reached double figures.

Shahab Alam starred with the ball for Kathmandu, claiming an impressive six-wicket haul that included the season’s first hat-trick. Alam claimed four wickets in the final over alone. Captain Karan KC and Sunny Patel claimed two wickets each.

Earlier, after losing the toss, Kathmandu were sent in to bat. Ben Charlesworth anchored the innings with 64 runs, while Bhim Sharki’s explosive 55 off 23 balls shifted the momentum in Kathmandu’s favour. Milind Kumar added 13 runs to the total.

Pokhara’s bowling attack was led by Dhananjaya Lakshan, who took four wickets. Captain Kushal Bhurtel claimed two, while Bipin Khatri and Kiran Thagunna picked up one wicket each.

In Friday’s sole league match, fourth-placed Lumbini Lions, with six points, will face last-placed Janakpur Bolts. A win will strengthen the Lions’ playoff contention, while a loss would eliminate the Bolts – the defending champions – from the top-four race.