The Sudurpashchim Royals continued their dominant run in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) by claiming their second consecutive victory, this time with a commanding 73-run win over the Kathmandu Gurkhas. The Royals’ performance was highlighted by a remarkable five-wicket haul from the young and talented Naren Saud, making his NPL debut a day after his participation in the U-19 Asia Cup.
Naren Saud Shines with a Record-Breaking Five-Wicket Haul
Naren Saud’s extraordinary bowling performance was the standout moment of the match, as he became only the second bowler in NPL history—and the first Nepali player—to take five wickets in a single game. His five-wicket haul decimated Kathmandu Gurkhas’ batting lineup, which could only manage a mere 94 runs in 15.5 overs while chasing a target of 168 runs.
Naren’s outstanding figures of 5 wickets for just 22 runs in 3.5 overs were instrumental in securing the win for his team. His sensational spell mirrored the feat achieved by Pakistani bowler Sohail Tanvir, who took five wickets earlier in the tournament for Chitwan Rhinos against Kathmandu Gurkhas.
Alongside Naren, Avinash Bohara provided crucial support with the ball, claiming 2 wickets for just 12 runs in his three overs, which included a maiden. Brandon McMullen and Saif Zaib also contributed to the victory with one wicket apiece, further tightening the grip on the match. The Gurkhas had no answer to the relentless pace and accuracy of the Royals’ bowlers.
Kathmandu Gurkhas’ Struggles in the Chase
The Kathmandu Gurkhas had no answer to the Royals’ bowling attack and found themselves in deep trouble as wickets fell at regular intervals. Stephen Eskinazi, the top scorer for the Gurkhas, made a valiant effort with 37 runs off 33 balls, including five boundaries and a six. However, he received little support from his teammates.
Sumit Maharjan managed only 14 runs, while Bhim Sharki and Gerhard Erasmus were dismissed for 10 runs each. The middle and lower order crumbled under pressure, with the Royals’ bowlers producing a clinical performance to bowl Kathmandu out for just 94 runs. The Gurkhas’ chase was over before they could get close to the target, falling short by a huge margin.
Sudurpashchim Royals’ Solid Batting Effort
Earlier in the match, Sudurpashchim Royals had batted first after losing the toss. Despite the challenging conditions, the Royals posted a competitive total of 167 runs. Opener Binod Bhandari provided a solid start with 35 runs off 28 balls, including two fours and two sixes. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee, known for his aggressive strokeplay, contributed a quick-fire 43 runs off 25 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes.
The highest score of the innings came from Brandon McMullen, who continued his fine form in the NPL, scoring 53 runs off 36 balls. McMullen’s innings included three boundaries and four sixes, anchoring the Royals’ total. Saif Zaib also chipped in with a useful 11 runs, helping the team set a challenging target.
Kathmandu Gurkhas’ bowlers put in a spirited effort, with Rashid Khan taking two wickets. However, they were unable to halt the flow of runs. Captain Karan KC, Shahab Alam, and Gerhard Erasmus each claimed one wicket, but the Royals’ batting depth proved too strong.
Looking Ahead
With this comprehensive win, the Sudurpashchim Royals have not only claimed back-to-back victories but also made a powerful statement in the NPL. Their all-round performance, from Naren Saud’s record-breaking bowling to their solid batting effort, sets them up as one of the favorites in the tournament. On the other hand, Kathmandu Gurkhas will need to regroup and work on their consistency, particularly in their batting line-up, if they hope to challenge for the title in the upcoming matches.
As the tournament progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling encounters, with the Royals certainly keeping the pressure on their competitors with this resounding victory.
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