KATHMANDU, Dec 18: Janakpur Bolts have set a target of 140 runs for Sudurpaschim Royals in the first qualifier of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) cricket tournament.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Janakpur posted 139 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted overs. James Neesham was the standout performer, scoring 45 runs off 23 balls. Lahiru Milantha was dismissed for 12 runs, while captain Asif Sheikh was bowled out for 11 runs. Shubh Kansakar made 26 runs before being run out, and Harsh Thaker scored 12 runs. Arniko Yadav also contributed with 11 runs.
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Sudurpaschim Royals' bowlers dominated, with Captain Dipendra Singh Airee taking 3 wickets. Saif Zaib claimed 2 wickets, while Abinash Bohora and Scott Kuggeleign each took one wicket.
Janakpur is being led by Asif Sheikh after regular captain Anil Sah was injured. The winner of this match will secure a spot in the final, while the losing team will compete against Karnali Yaks in the second qualifier on Thursday. Karnali qualified for the second qualifier by defeating Chitwan Rhinos. The final will take place on Saturday.
