Kathmandu – Chitwan Rhinos defeated Biratnagar Kings by eight runs in the Nepal Premier League (NPL), successfully defending a target of 158 runs in an exciting contest.
Batting first, Chitwan Rhinos scored 157 for the loss of three wickets in their allotted 20 overs. England’s David Malan top-scored with 70 runs off 51 balls, providing a strong foundation for the innings.
Dev Khanal contributed 12 runs off 15 balls, while Arjun Saud managed just three runs off nine deliveries. Ravi Bopara and Dan Mousley then built an unbeaten 67-run partnership to boost Chitwan’s total. Bopara remained not out on 32, while Mousley scored an unbeaten 29.
Chasing a target of 158, Biratnagar Kings were bowled out for 149 in 19.3 overs. Despite a promising effort from their batters, Biratnagar fell eight runs short of the target.
Imran Sheikh was Biratnagar’s leading scorer with 39 runs. Andre Russell added 33 off just 17 balls, hitting one four and four sixes, while Lokesh Bam contributed 26 off 14 deliveries. Angelo Mathews scored 14, Basir Ahmed made 13, and Shubham Ranjane added 10 runs.
However, Biratnagar’s chase lost momentum at a crucial stage. Chitwan bowler Kamal Singh Airee claimed four wickets for 26 runs, including two important wickets in the 18th over. He dismissed Rupesh Singh and Pratis GC for ducks, putting Biratnagar under significant pressure.
Rijan Dhakal also played a crucial role, taking two wickets in the 19th over to further damage Biratnagar’s chances. Chitwan’s disciplined bowling and timely breakthroughs ultimately secured the victory.
The second match of the day will see Janakpur Bolts take on Karnali Yaks.