KATHMANDU, Dec 6: Biratnagar Kings stormed into the first qualifier with a stunning six-wicket victory over Sudurpaschim Royals in Saturday’s opening match of the Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL).
Chasing 148 and required to finish the job inside 14 overs to secure second place, Biratnagar did it in style, reaching the target in just 11.5 overs and producing one of the most explosive batting performances of the tournament.
Faf du Plessis set the tone with a blistering 50 off only 19 balls, hammering five fours and four sixes.
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He shared a commanding 97-run opening stand with Sam Hain, who struck 51 off 27. Martin Guptill chipped in with a quick 22 before Pratish GC sealed the chase with back-to-back sixes in the 12th over, completing a remarkable run-rate-boosting win.
The victory lifted Biratnagar to second place with 10 points, nudging Kathmandu Gorkhas on net run rate. Sudurpaschim, who had already secured the top spot with six consecutive wins, saw their unbeaten run snapped in their final league outing.
Earlier, after being sent in to bat, Sudurpaschim posted 147 for 6. Arif Sheikh top-scored with an unbeaten 45 off 32 balls, while Ishan Pandey added 38. Biratnagar’s captain Sandeep Lamichhane was the standout with the ball, taking three wickets for 20, with Pratish GC picking up two more.
With the league stage now complete, Sudurpaschim and Biratnagar will meet again in Tuesday’s first qualifier, with the winner advancing to Saturday’s final and the loser getting another chance in the second qualifier. Kathmandu and Lumbini Lions will face off in Wednesday’s Eliminator, with the winner moving forward to challenge for the remaining spot in the title decider.
Biratnagar head into the playoffs carrying significant momentum, while Sudurpaschim will look to reset after their first setback of the season.
