Kathmandu Gorkhas have secured their place in the playoffs of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season 2 after defeating Pokhara Avengers by 13 runs.
They became the second team to reach the playoffs, following Sudurpaschim Royals as the first qualifiers.
Chasing Kathmandu’s target of 166 runs, Pokhara Avengers were bowled out for just 152 runs in 19.5 overs. Although Rishi Dhawan played an impressive innings of 54 runs, he could not lead the team to victory. Dhananjay Laxman scored 35, captain Kushal Bhurtel added 28, and Jason Roy contributed 16 runs.
Kathmandu’s bowling attack was outstanding, with Sahab Alam delivering a brilliant spell that included a hat-trick. He took 6 wickets in 4 overs while conceding only 25 runs. Sunny Patel and captain Karan KC picked up two wickets each.
Earlier, after losing the toss, Kathmandu Gorkhas posted 165 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Bhim Sharki smashed a superb half-century, scoring 55 runs off just 23 balls with five fours and four sixes. Ben Charlesworth also played a fine innings, making 64 runs off 55 balls with five boundaries and two sixes. Milind Kumar contributed 13 runs.
For Pokhara, Dhananjay Laxman shone with the ball, taking 4 wickets for just 16 runs in his 4-over spell. Bipin Khatri grabbed two wickets, while Kiran Thagunna and captain Kushal Bhurtel took one wicket each.
Kathmandu’s victory has made Pokhara’s path to the playoffs much more difficult. To stay in the contention, Pokhara must win all their remaining matches and rely on favorable results from other teams.
About the Author
