Sudurpaschim Royals earned a vital victory over Pokhara Avengers in the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).
The result offers a welcome boost for the Royals, who opened their campaign with a loss to defending champions Lumbini Lions. Pokhara, meanwhile, began this season hoping to improve on their performances in the first two editions.
Sudurpaschim Aim to Recover from Opening Defeat
Sudurpaschim entered the match under pressure after Lumbini Lions beat them by seven wickets in their opening game, bowling them out for just 87 runs.
Led by Nepal international all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee, the Royals have reached the final in each of the previous two NPL editions but have not yet lifted the title.
This victory gives them an opportunity to regain their footing and build confidence.
Pokhara Avengers Seek Progress in the NPL
Pokhara Avengers began their third NPL campaign determined to put in a stronger performance. Under captain Kushal Bhurtel, the team has found it difficult to make an impact in earlier editions and has yet to reach the playoffs.
Their squad includes experienced players, among them Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, along with other overseas recruits.
Pokhara hoped to secure their first win against Sudurpaschim, having lost to them in both of the previous two seasons.
A Key NPL Fixture
The game took place at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
Eight teams are competing in the tournament, with each side facing every other team during the league stage. The top four will advance to the playoffs.
The result is significant for Sudurpaschim as they recover from their opening-game defeat. Pokhara will look to respond in their next matches as they pursue a first-ever place in the playoffs.