In an exhilarating encounter at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, Chitwan Rhinos handed Sudurpaschim Royals their first defeat of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Sunday. With an impressive all-around performance, Chitwan secured a 33-run victory in the second match of the day.
Chitwan Sets the Stage with a Solid Total
Chitwan Rhinos, having won the toss, opted to bat first, a decision that paid off as they posted a formidable 164/5 in their 20 overs. The innings was spearheaded by opener Hassan Eisakhil, who delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 65 runs off just 52 balls. His innings was studded with six boundaries and three sixes, showcasing his aggressive approach at the top of the order. Ravi Bopara was another standout for Chitwan, contributing a quick-fire 36 runs from 18 balls, including two sixes and two fours.
Despite Chitwan’s strong start, Sudurpaschim Royals’ bowlers managed to chip in with key breakthroughs. Scott Kuggeleijn was the most successful bowler for the Royals, taking two wickets. Dipendra Singh Airee, Brandon McMullen, and Saif Zaib also added to the tally with one wicket each, but Chitwan’s batting depth proved too much for them to contain.
Sudurpaschim’s Chase Falls Short
Chasing a target of 165, Sudurpaschim Royals got off to a rocky start and never quite managed to recover. Ishan Pandey was the top scorer for the Royals, playing a spirited innings of 35 runs from 28 balls, which featured four boundaries and a six. However, Pandey’s dismissal by Amar Routela marked a significant turning point, and the rest of the lineup struggled to build partnerships.
Saif Zaib (18), Brandon McMullen (13), and Dilpreet Bajwa (12) made brief contributions, but they were not enough to keep the chase alive. The Chitwan bowling unit, led by disciplined performances, bowled Sudurpaschim out for 131 runs in 18.2 overs. Kushal Malla, Jean Nicol Leask, Rijan Dhakal, and Amar Routela each took two wickets, effectively dismantling Sudurpaschim’s innings. Sohail Tanvir and Ranjit Kumar also chipped in with a wicket apiece, ensuring Chitwan’s victory.
Points Table Update
With this victory, Chitwan Rhinos have moved up to third place on the NPL points table, securing six points from four matches. Sudurpaschim Royals, despite the loss, remain in second place due to their superior net run rate. Janakpur Bolts continue to dominate at the top of the table with an unbeaten record and eight points from four games.
Earlier in the day, Janakpur Bolts had narrowly defeated Lumbini Lions by just one run in a nail-biting contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
As the NPL action continues, fans can expect more thrilling encounters as teams fight for supremacy and a spot at the top of the table.
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