Sudurpaschim’s Perfect Run Sends Biratnagar into the Playoffs

Sudurpaschim Royals sealed the top position on the Nepal Premier League table on Thursday, December 4, securing a place in the First Qualifier after notching their sixth straight win. The Royals, last season’s runners-up, eased past Chitwan Rhinos with a 49-run victory at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

They still have one league match to play — against the Biratnagar Kings on Saturday,  December 6 — but the Kings also made it to the playoffs thanks to Sudurpaschim’s win.

Earlier in the day, Kathmandu Gorkhas became the second team to enter the playoffs after beating Chitwan Rhinos. The Gorkhas finished their league campaign with 10 points from seven matches.

Biratnagar Kings sit third with eight points from six matches. With Lumbini Lions the only side still capable of reaching eight points, Biratnagar’s superior position in the standings ensured their qualification.

Lumbini, currently fourth with six points from six matches, face defending champions Janakpur Bolts — now bottom of the table — in Friday’s only fixture. A Lumbini win would guarantee them the final playoff berth and end the hopes of the Bolts, Rhinos and Avengers. But a Janakpur victory would extend the race, keeping all four teams — the Bolts, Lions, Avengers and Rhinos — in contention for the last remaining spot.

Karnali Yaks, with a single win from six matches, are already out of contention. Their final match, against Janakpur on Sunday, December 7, will close the league stage of this year’s NPL.

Pokhara and Chitwan, level on four points after six matches each, sit fifth and sixth respectively. They face each other on Saturday, December 6.

Royals Outclass Rhinos

Chasing 170, Chitwan Rhinos folded for 120 in 17.1 overs.

Puneet Mehra led Sudurpaschim’s bowling attack with three wickets. Dipendra Singh Airee, Hikmat Mahara, Avinash Bohara and Ishan Pandey picked up one each.

Earlier, Chris Lynn struck a fluent 75 off 56 balls to lay the foundation for Royals’ 169/4. Lynn was named player of the match.

For Chitwan, Saif Zaib claimed two wickets while Ranjit Kumar and George Scrimshaw took one apiece.