KATHMANDU, Nov 18: Chitwan Rhinos opened their Nepal Premier League (NPL) campaign with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Karnali Yaks on Tuesday.
Chasing Karnali’s competitive total of 166, Chitwan reached the target in 19.1 overs with six wickets down. The win was anchored by strong batting performances from Ravi Bopara and Saif Zaib.
Earlier, after winning the toss at TU Cricket Ground, Karnali rode on a blistering knock from opener Priyank Panchal, who scored 90 runs off 48 balls with seven fours and six sixes. He fell just 10 runs short of a century. Karnali posted 166/3, with Max O’Dowd contributing 20 and Pawan Sarraf adding an unbeaten 27 off 16 balls.
NPL: Karnali Yaks bowling against Chitwan Rhinos
In reply, Chitwan’s chase was steered by veteran all-rounder Bopara, who top-scored with 52 off 36 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes. Deepak Bohara added 42, while captain Kushal Malla chipped in with 20.
The match grew tense after Bopara’s dismissal in the 19th over, but Saif Zaib’s explosive 38 off just 16 balls — featuring two fours and four sixes — shifted momentum back in Chitwan’s favour. Arjun Saud remained unbeaten on 8 to finish the chase with five balls to spare.
For Karnali, Sompal Kami took two wickets, while Mark Watt, Yunish Singh, and Yuvaraj Khatri claimed one each.
Chitwan’s bowlers also made key contributions, with Bopara, Zaib and Sohail Tanvir picking up a wicket apiece.
With this victory, Chitwan Rhinos have made a winning start to their NPL 2025 campaign.
