KATHMANDU, Dec 15: Sudurpaschim Royals have registered a thrilling five-run victory over Pokhara Avengers in Sunday’s second match under the Nepal Premier League (NPL) played at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket ground in Kirtipur.
Avengers were bundled out for 148 runs for the loss of all wickets in 19.4 overs while chasing the target of 154 runs set by Royals.
With this loss, Avengers ended their run in the tournament with 6 points from seven matches. As Avengers are eliminated from the playoff equation, this win secures Royals’ place in the top four. With 10 points from six matches, Royals has climbed to the top of the table.
NPL: Royals set 154-run target for Avengers
To bundle out Pokhara, Scott Kuggeleijn played a pivotal role by claiming 5 wickets including 3 in the last over. Kuggeleijn took 5 wickets giving away just 18 runs in 3.4 overs. Harmeet Singh also took 3 wickets for Royals.
For Avengers, Andries Gous scored 36 runs while Raymond Reifer scored 33 runs and Kiran Thagunna scored 32 runs.
The Royals registered their fifth victory in six games and climbed to the top position by adding 10 points. Despite also having 10 points, Janakpur Bolts have fallen to second place due to a lower net return rate.
With Sunday’s victory, Royals have strengthened the possibility of playing the first qualifier by being in the top two. Royals will play against Karnali Yaks on Monday in the last match of the NPL. So far, along with Bolts, Royals and Chitwan Rhinos, have secured their spot in the playoffs, while one spot is up for grabs between Kathmandu Gurkhas and Karnali Yaks.
