KATHMANDU, Dec 8: Sudurpaschim Royals' unbeaten performance in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) suffered an end today after a 33-run defeat to Chitwan Rhinos in their fourth match. The loss prevented Sudurpaschim from taking the top spot, while Chitwan, with their third win, tied on points with Sudurpaschim at 6. In any case, Sudurpaschim remains second and Chitwan third, with the teams separated by run rate.
Chasing a target of 165 runs set by Chitwan at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Sudurpaschim was bowled out for 131 runs in 18.2 overs. Ishan Pandey was the highest scorer for Sudurpaschim, contributing 35 runs.
NPL: Chitwan Rhinos batting against Sudurpaschim Royals
Earlier, Chitwan, who won the toss and elected to bat first, posted 164/5 in their 20 overs. Hasan Eshakhil was the top scorer for Chitwan, making 65 runs from 52 balls, including 3 sixes and 6 fours. Ravi Bopara added 36 runs in just 18 balls, hitting 2 sixes and 2 fours. Bipin Rawal scored 17 runs, and captain Kushal Malla contributed 13 runs.
For Sudurpaschim, Scott Kuggeleijn took 2 wickets, while Dipendra Singh Airee, Brendon McMullen, and Saif Zaib each snatched one wicket.
