In an exciting conclusion to the Nepal Premier League (NPL), the Janakpur Bolts emerged as the champions, defeating the Sudur Paschim Royals by 5 wickets in the final match held on Saturday at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. The win marked a historic moment for the Janakpur Bolts as they secured their first-ever NPL title.
Janakpur Bolts’ Victory: A Stellar Chase
Janakpur Bolts were tasked with chasing a challenging target of 185 runs set by Sudur Paschim Royals. The Bolts reached the target in 19.2 overs, achieving a 5-wicket win. Lahiru Milantha played a pivotal role in their victory, scoring an impressive 87 runs off 50 balls, including a crucial half-century. Aasif Sheikh (33 runs) and Harsh Thaker (30 runs) provided strong support in the chase. Other key contributors included Mohammad Mohsin (9 runs), James Neesham (4 runs), Aakash Tripathi, and Mayan Yadav, both of whom scored 2 runs each.
The Sudur Paschim Royals’ bowlers were unable to stop Janakpur’s momentum. Scott Kuggeleijn, Ishan Pandey, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Saif Zaib each took a wicket, but it wasn’t enough to halt the Bolts’ chase.
Sudur Paschim Royals’ Batting Performance
Earlier, Sudur Paschim Royals posted a competitive total of 184 runs in their allotted 20 overs, losing 9 wickets. Saif Zaib led the charge with a remarkable 69 runs, including a vital half-century. Binod Bhandari supported with 41 runs, while Brandon McMullen and Harmeet Singh both scored 14 runs. Scott Kuggeleijn added 13 runs, and Dipendra Singh Airee (9), Naresh Budayair (8), Ishan Pandey (6), and Naren Saud (1) rounded off the rest of the batting line-up.
Janakpur Bolts’ Bowlers Shine
The Janakpur Bolts’ bowlers were on top of their game, restricting Sudur Paschim Royals’ total. Kishore Mahato and Mohammad Mohsin were the standout bowlers, each taking 3 wickets. James Neesham and Lalit Rajbanshi also chipped in with a wicket apiece, helping Janakpur maintain the pressure throughout the match.
NPL Final: A Historic Moment for Janakpur Bolts
This victory not only marks the first NPL title for Janakpur but also highlights their strong all-round performance in the Nepal Premier League. With outstanding batting by Lahiru Milantha and solid bowling from Kishore Mahato, the Janakpur Bolts have etched their name in NPL history as champions, bringing home the prestigious title.
Conclusion: A Dominant Performance by Janakpur Bolts
In a thrilling final, the Janakpur Bolts showed resilience, tactical acumen, and team spirit to claim the NPL Championship. Their victory over the Sudur Paschim Royals in the inaugural edition of the Nepal Premier League cements their position as one of the top teams in Nepali cricket.