The Janakpur Bolts suffered their first defeat in five games at the hands of the Sudur Paschim Royals. However, they have only themselves to blame for a disastrous batting performance. Chasing a modest target of 123, the Bolts crumbled under pressure, resorting to reckless slogs and losing wickets in quick succession. They were eventually bowled out for just 51—the lowest total in the competition so far. The Bolts will hope this is merely a one-off bad day and aim to return to their winning ways. Up until this match, they had looked flawless, but this defeat could serve as a timely wake-up call, reminding them not to underestimate any total.
The Gurkhas, on the other hand, overcame the Lions in a low-scoring encounter after setting a target of just 103 runs. Dipesh Kandel delivered an outstanding performance, bowling four economical overs that conceded only six runs and claimed three crucial wickets. Captain Karan KC also shone, taking 4/16 to secure an 18-run win. Their playoff fate remains in their hands. Bhim Sharki made his first notable contribution with a steady 31 off 40 balls, while Daniel Douthwaite continued to add useful runs down the order. These are encouraging signs despite the ongoing struggles of the top order.
Seven of the last eight matches have been won by the team batting first. As the pitch continues to slow down, teams have found it increasingly difficult to chase totals. Winning the toss might prove pivotal, with teams likely opting to bat first.
Janakpur Bolts (Probable Playing XIs)
Anil Kumar Sah
Aasif Sheikh
Lahiru Milantha
Shubh Kansakar
James Neesham
Harsh Thaker
Muhammad Mohsin/Joshua Tromp
Sher Malla
Hemant Dhami/Arniko Yadav
Lalit Rajbanshi
Kishore Mahato
Probable Playing XI of Kathmandu Gurkhas
Stephen Eskinazi †
Shankar Rana
Michael Levitt
Sumit Maharjan
Gerhard Erasmus
Bhim Sharki
Pratik Shrestha
Rashid Khan
Karan KC (c)
Nathan Sowter
