South Africa cricket star David Miller had a fantastic start to his NPL 2026 season, scoring an impressive 93 not out off 55 balls. Unfortunately, his efforts weren’t enough to save Karnali Yaks from a 39 run loss to Sudurpaschim Royals on Friday, November 6.
Sudurpaschim Royals set a solid target of 176/6 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, while Karnali Yaks managed only 137/7 in response.
David Miller Shines in NPL Debut
Miller was named man of the match for his outstanding performance. He scored 93 not out, hitting 5 fours and 7 sixes. Despite his remarkable innings, Miller received little support from his teammates, and the team struggled early, losing two wickets for just 20 runs.
Deepak Dumre contributed 18 runs off 12 balls, but wickets fell consistently. Miller attempted to stabilize the innings, yet partnerships were hard to come by under increasing pressure.
Pawan Sarraf scored 5, and captain Sompal Kami added 8. No other players reached double figures, leading to Karnali Yaks being all out for 137/7.
Sudurpaschim Royals Score 176
Sudurpaschim Royals began strongly, achieving 176/6 in their 20 overs. Openers Binod Bhandari and Saif Zaib put together a solid 68-run partnership. Bhandari scored 27 off 22 balls, while Zaib made 35 off 24 balls.
Despite a strong start, Karnali Yaks’ bowlers managed to slow the scoring. Dipendra Singh Airee contributed 10 runs before being stumped, while Brandon McMullen scored 24 off 16 balls, and Ishan Pandey added 23.
Tharindu Rathnayake finished with an unbeaten 22 off 12 balls, and Scott Kuggeleijn remained not out with 13 off 6, helping the Royals post a challenging total.
Mark Watt Excels for Karnali
Mark Watt from Scotland was Karnali Yaks’ standout bowler, taking 2 wickets for 27 runs. Nandan Yadav, Surya Tamang, Hussain Talat, and Sarraf each took 1 wicket. Karnali Yaks managed to slow the Royals after a strong start but struggled to contain them toward the end.
Kuggeleijn Leads for Sudurpaschim
Karnali needed a strong start in their chase but faced immediate pressure from Sudurpaschim’s bowlers. Kuggeleijn was the top performer, capturing 2 wickets for 39 runs. Hemant Dhami, Anil Kharel, Dipendra Singh Airee, Tharindu Rathnayake, and Abinash Bohara each took 1 wicket.
Karnali lost wickets frequently, placing the burden on Miller. Despite his brilliant 93, he couldn’t secure victory, as Sudurpaschim maintained control to win comfortably.
Sudurpaschim Strengthens NPL Position
This win significantly boosts Sudurpaschim Royals’ prospects in the NPL season. They displayed a strong batting lineup and effective bowling to defend their total. For Karnali Yaks, it was disappointing, especially after Miller’s outstanding performance.
Miller’s 93 not out will be remembered as a highlight of the match. Karnali will aim to recover in their upcoming league games, while Sudurpaschim will seek to build on their victory.