Sudurpaschim Royals advanced to the playoffs of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) as the top team on the table with a match to spare.
In a thrilling match at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Sunday, Sudurpaschim edged out Pokhara Avengers by five runs. Pokhara had already been eliminated from the playoff race prior to the game.
With this win, Sudurpaschim accumulated 10 points from six matches, solidifying their position at the top and strengthening their chances of playing the first qualifier. Janakpur Bolts, also with 10 points, have already secured a playoff spot.
Similarly, Chitwan Tigers, with 8 points from 7 matches, secured their playoff berth based on net run rate. Sudurpaschim will face Karnali Yaks in their final league game on Monday, which will determine the fourth and final team to make it to the playoffs.
Chasing a target of 154 runs, Pokhara was bowled out for 148 in 19.4 overs. Andries Gous top-scored for Pokhara with 36 runs, while Raymon Reifer (33), Karan KC (32), Dinesh Kharel (15), and Zain Malik (10) also contributed.
For Sudurpaschim, Scott Kuggeleijn was the standout bowler, claiming 5 wickets for just 18 runs in 3.4 overs. Harmeet Singh took 3 wickets, while Saif Zaib grabbed 1.
Earlier, opting to bat first after losing the toss, Sudurpaschim posted 153/7 in 20 overs. Aarif Sheikh anchored the innings with an unbeaten 42 off 38 balls, supported by Brandon McMullen (23), Dipendra Singh Airee (20), Binod Bhandari (14), and Harmeet Singh (13).
For Pokhara, captain Kushal Bhurtel bagged two wickets, while Raymon Reifer, Sagar Dhakal, and Michael Leask each took one wicket.
