Kings Thrash Royals to Book Qualifier 1 Clash

Biratnagar Kings delivered a commanding performance to end Sudurpaschim Royals’ undefeated streak and finish second in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025 standings on Saturday, December 6.

Required to chase a target of 148 runs in under 13.5 overs to surpass Kathmandu Gorkhas on net run rate, the Kings went on to make 150/4 in just 11.5 overs. This victory propelled them to second place with 10 points and a net run rate of 0.68, while the Gorkhas slipped to third with equal points but a lower net run rate of 0.537.

The Lumbini Lions occupied fourth place after defeating defending champions Janakpur Bolts the previous day, ending the playoff hopes of the Bolts, Pokhara Avengers, and Chitwan Rhinos. Karnali Yaks were already out of contention for the top four.

The Kings’ top three batters dominated the Royals’ bowling attack. Openers Faf du Plessis and Sam Heazlett hit half-centuries, putting on 97 runs for the opening stand in seven overs. Faf scored 50 off 20 balls with four sixes and five fours, while Heazlett made 51 off 27 with four sixes and three fours. Martin Guptill followed with 22 runs off 9 balls, including three sixes, before being run out on a no-ball. Basir Ahamad could make only 8 runs off 9 balls. But, Pratis GC finished the innings with back-to-back sixes off Abinash Bohra.

Bohra took two wickets but conceded 38 runs in 2.5 overs. Harmeet Singh claimed one at an economy of 9, while skipper Dipendra Singh Airee was hit for 38 runs in two overs.

Earlier, invited to bat, the Royals posted 147/6, powered by Aarif Sheikh’s unbeaten 45 off 32 balls, Ishan Pandey’s 38 off 35, Josh Brown’s 24 off 25, and Airee’s 19 off 11.

Skipper Sandeep Lamichhane took three wickets at an economy of 5, while Pratis GC and Basir Ahamad claimed two and one wickets, respectively.

Faf du Plessis was named Player of the Match for his blistering innings.

With this win, the Kings and Royals will clash again in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday, December 9, with the winner advancing directly to the final on December 13. The loser will still have a chance to reach the final by playing against the winner of the eliminator between the Gorkhas and Lions on Wednesday, December 10. Qualifier 2 will follow the next day.

Saturday’s day-night fixture features Chitwan Rhinos facing Pokhara Avengers, while Janakpur Bolts will take on Karnali Yaks in the season’s final league match on Sunday, December 7.