Sudurpaschim Royals clinched a playoff spot in the NPL with a thrilling seven run victory over Kathmandu Gorkhas at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
In pursuit of a 126 run target, Kathmandu managed only 118/7 in their 20 overs, facing a significant set back.
This win elevates Sudurpaschim to the top of the standings with 10 points from seven matches.
Dipendra Singh Airee Leads Sudurpaschim’s Comeback
Sudurpaschim started shakily, losing four quick wickets for just eight runs.
Dipendra Singh Airee’s captaincy turned the tide, scoring a solid 60 runs off 55 balls, including five fours and two sixes.
He received support from Aarif Sheikh (16) and Tharindu Ratnayake (26 not out).
Airee and Aarif added 54 runs for the fifth wicket, while Airee and Ratnayake also contributed 54 runs for the sixth wicket.
They concluded their innings at 125/6 after 20 overs.
Jahandad Khan stood out for Kathmandu, taking 3 wickets for 22 runs, while Santosh Yadav claimed 2.
Kathmandu Struggles in Run Chase
Kathmandu Gorkhas faced difficulties in their chase, losing wickets at regular intervals.
They found themselves in a tough spot at 48/5.
Rashid Khan and Dushan Hemantha attempted to revive the innings with a 34 run sixth wicket partnership.
Hemantha contributed 21 runs, while Rashid finished unbeaten on 35 from 31 balls, hitting five boundaries.
Despite their efforts, Kathmandu was all out for 118/7.
Anil Kharel took 2 wickets, while Scott Kuggeleijn, Hemant Dhami, and Fabian Allen each claimed 1.
Sudurpaschim Advances to Playoffs
With this victory, Sudurpaschim has secured a spot in the NPL playoffs, amassing 10 points from seven matches.
They have strengthened their position for a top two finish, which would qualify them for the first qualifier.
In contrast, Kathmandu faced their first defeat after winning the last four matches and is currently in third place with 8 points from 6 games.
However, they still have a chance to reach the top two, as their final league match is against Pokhara Avengers.
Sudurpaschim’s tight bowling and Airee’s crucial half century made the difference in this closely contested match.