In a nail-biting finish at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Janakpur Bolts clinched a dramatic 1-run victory over Lumbini Lions in the Nepal Premier League (NPL). This thrilling win strengthened Janakpur’s playoff prospects while leaving Lumbini’s chances hanging by a thread.
A Last-Ball Thriller
Chasing a modest target of 137 set by Janakpur, Lumbini came tantalizingly close but fell short, finishing with 135 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. With just 2 runs required off the final ball, Lumbini’s hopes were dashed when Sundeep Jora was caught out, sealing Janakpur’s fourth consecutive victory in the tournament.
Lumbini’s Captain Leads from the Front
Despite the loss, Lumbini’s captain, Rohit Paudel, played a valiant knock, top-scoring for his team with 35 runs off 38 balls. His innings included three boundaries but he lacked sufficient support from his teammates. Tom Moores contributed 31 runs, and Arjun Saud added a useful 20, but it wasn’t enough to get them over the line.
Janakpur’s Bowler of the Match: Harsh Thaker
Janakpur’s bowling attack was led by the exceptional Harsh Thaker, who delivered a match-winning performance, claiming 5 wickets for just 23 runs. His spell was a game-changer, as he kept Lumbini’s chase in check. Lalit Rajbanshi, Kishore Mahato, and Sher Malla also chipped in with a wicket each, making it a well-rounded bowling effort.
Janakpur’s Batting Performance
Earlier, Janakpur batted first after being put in by Lumbini, and posted a total of 136 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. The standout performer for Janakpur was captain Anil Kumar Sah, who top-scored with 45 runs off 39 balls, smashing four sixes and a boundary. Shubh Kansakar remained unbeaten on 22, providing solid support at the end.
Lumbini’s debutant, Abhishesh Gautam, made a memorable impact with a triple strike in one over. He dismissed Lahiru Milantha (24), Harsh Thaker (1), and James Neesham (0) in quick succession, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 20 in his 4-over spell. Lumbini’s captain Rohit Paudel and Saad Zafar also picked up two wickets each, while Jora claimed one.
The Current Standings: Janakpur on Top, Lumbini Struggling
This thrilling victory propelled Janakpur Bolts to the top of the NPL points table with 8 points from 4 matches, boosting their chances of making it to the playoffs. On the other hand, Lumbini Lions, still winless after four games, find themselves at the bottom of the standings. With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, Lumbini must win all of their remaining three matches and hope for favorable results elsewhere to stay in contention for a playoff spot.
As the NPL continues to unfold, Janakpur Bolts are in prime position to push for a playoff berth, while Lumbini Lions face a tough uphill battle. The action is far from over, and cricket fans are in for more excitement in the coming weeks!
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