Karnali Yaks secured their third consecutive victory in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) with a dominant performance against Pokhara Avengers. Thanks to a record-breaking six-wicket haul by William Bosisto and an unbeaten 49-run knock by Gulshan Jha, Karnali triumphed by seven wickets, further boosting their playoff chances.
William Bosisto Shines with Record-Breaking Six-Wicket Haul
William Bosisto’s sensational bowling performance was the highlight of the match. The all-rounder delivered a spell of 4 overs, taking 6 wickets for just 28 runs, setting a new record in the NPL. His brilliant bowling dismantled Pokhara Avengers, who were bowled out for a modest total of 103 runs in 16.3 overs. Bosisto’s efforts were pivotal in restricting Pokhara’s batting lineup, allowing Karnali to chase down the target with ease.
Karnali Yaks’ Strong Chase Led by Gulshan Jha
Chasing a target of just 104, Karnali reached 105/3 in 15 overs, losing only three wickets. Gulshan Jha was the standout performer, contributing a steady 49 runs off 37 balls, which included three fours and four sixes. His explosive innings anchored the chase, and along with Chadwick Walton, who added 42 runs off 34 balls, they put on a crucial 60-run partnership after Karnali had lost two early wickets for just 14 runs.
Bosisto remained unbeaten on two runs, while opener Babar Hayat was dismissed for seven, and Dev Khanal was out for a duck.
Pokhara Avengers’ Struggles with the Bat
Earlier in the match, Pokhara Avengers won the toss and elected to bat at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. However, they struggled to put up a challenging total, being bowled out for 103 in just 16.3 overs. The top scorers for Pokhara were Dinesh Kharel (26), Andres Gous (25), and Raymon Reifer (20). Captain Kushal Bhurtel and Bipin Khatri contributed 10 runs each, but the remaining batters failed to make an impact, as Karnali’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout.
Karnali’s Bowling Attack: Strong and Steady
Along with Bosisto’s brilliant spell, Karnali’s bowlers provided solid support. Sompal Kami, Bipin Sharma, and Yunish Singh Thakuri each took one wicket, contributing to Pokhara’s collapse. Karnali’s disciplined bowling attack made it difficult for Pokhara to build partnerships, ultimately leading to their downfall.
Playoff Hopes Remain Strong for Karnali
With this win, Karnali Yaks now have three wins from five games, earning six points and keeping their hopes alive for the NPL playoffs. They are currently in fourth place, tied on points with Sudurpaschim Royals and Chitwan Rhinos, but trail behind on net run rate. Meanwhile, Pokhara Avengers’ disappointing third defeat in four games leaves them with just two points, as they struggle to find form.
Conclusion: Karnali’s Path to Playoffs Looks Promising
Karnali Yaks’ commanding win against Pokhara Avengers highlights their growing strength in the tournament, thanks to standout performances from both their bowlers and batters. With three consecutive wins, they are now firmly in the race for the playoffs, and their next few matches will be crucial in determining their fate.