Kathmandu, Dec 11: In an electrifying 19th match of the Nepal Premier League, the Kathmandu Gurkhas have defeated Lumbini Lions by 18 runs in a low scoring game. The match, held at Kirtipur Cricket Ground, showcased thrilling cricketing action, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
The Gurkhas set the tone with a commanding performance, led by an outstanding fielding and bowling display. After winning the toss, Kathmandu Gurkhas captain Karan KC chose to bat first in the slow pitch. The team, however, collapsed in 19.2 overs after scoring just 103 runs in the board.
Bhim Sharki top scored with 31 runs, while Pratik Shrestha scored 20, Dan Douthwaite 21 and Stephen Eskinazi 13 runs. Other players could not add runs in double figures.
Saad Bin Zafar was the most successful bowler from Lumbini Lions. He took 3 wickets while Ramon Simmonds and Abhishesh Gautam took 2 wickets each while Surya Tamang and Bibek Yadav took 1 wicket each.
Chasing a modest target of just 104 runs, however, Lumbini Lions batting lineup collapsed before the KAG bowlers.
Scoreboard for Lumbini Lions
Ashutosh Ghiraiya – 4 runs
Arjun Saud – 3 runs
Unmukt Chand – 14 runs
Tom Moores – 6 runs
Captain Rohit Paudel – 8 runs
Sandeep Jora – 26 runs
Saad Bin Zafar – 0 runs
Bibek Yadav – 2 runs
Surya Tamang – 10 runs (not out)
Ramon Simmonds – 0 runs
Abhishesh Gautam – 0 runs
Total: 85 runs (all out) in 19.2 overs
For the Kathmandu Gurkhas, Karan KC took 4 wickets, Dipesh Kandel took 3 wickets while Gerhard Erasmus took 2 wickets each, and Rashid Khan took 1 wicket.
With the defeat, the hopes for Lumbini Lions for next stage rains illusive. They have already lost 3 games out of 4 games. The Lions have just won one game.
This victory cements Kathmandu Gurkhas’ in the fifth position in the points table, boosting their chances for a spot in the playoffs.
Point Table (Top Four)
Sudurpashchim Royals – 8 points
Janakpur Bolts – 8 points
Chitwan Rhinos – 6 points
Karnali Yaks – 6 points
Full Table
