In a dominating display at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Sudurpaschim Royals triumphantly defeated Kathmandu Gurkhas by 73 runs in their second match of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).
After being invited to bat, Sudurpaschim established a target of 168 runs by scoring 167/6 in their designated 20 overs. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee had a crucial impact, hitting 43 runs from only 25 balls, which featured three boundaries and two sixes. Brandon McMullen also stood out, making a quick 53 off 36 balls, which included three fours and four sixes. Binod Bhandari made a significant contribution of 35 runs from 28 balls, creating an essential 86-run partnership with McMullen for the second wicket.
Kathmandu Gurkhas began their chase poorly, losing important wickets in quick succession. Naren Saud, recently back from the ACC U-19 Asia Cup in the UAE, put forth a stellar match-winning display with statistics of 5/19 over 3.5 overs. His remarkable performance featured four wickets in only 11 balls. Abinash Bohara also bowled efficiently, claiming 2/12 in three overs, while McMullen and Saif Zaib each took one wicket.
The Gurkhas were dismissed for 94 in 15.5 overs, with Stephen Eskinazi leading the score with 37 runs off 35 balls, featuring five fours and one six. Additional contributors were Sumit Maharjan (14), Bhim Sharki, and Gerhard Erasmus, each scoring 10. The remaining lineup, featuring Michael Levitt (5), Shankar Rana (3), and Rashid Khan (2), found it difficult to establish partnerships.
Rashid Khan spearheaded the Gurkhas’ bowling attack, achieving figures of 2/20 across four overs, as Karan KC, Shahab Alam, and Erasmus each took one wicket.
Sudurpaschim Royals’ victory comes after their remarkable 90-run win against Biratnagar Kings in their first match, whereas Kathmandu Gurkhas had attained a three-wicket win over Karnali Yaks in their second match.
