Bhandari's half-century propels the Royals of Sudurpaschim to the NPL final

Binod Bhandari’s unbeaten half-century driven Sudurpaschim Royals to an 8-wicket victory over Janakpur Bolts on Wednesday, securing a spot in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) last at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.

Chasing a target of 140 in Qualifier 1, Sudurpaschim come to the mark comfortably in 18.3 overs. Bhandari scored an unbeaten 58 off 55 balls, counting three boundaries and three sixes. His knock was upheld by association between Saif Zaib (32 off 21) and Brandon McMullen (23 off 19). Captain Dipendra Singh Airee contributed a quick 21 off 16 balls to wrap up the chase.

Janakpur, choosing to bat to begin with, overseen 139 for 9 in their 20 overs. Jimmy Neesham top-scored with a quickfire 45 off 23 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes, whereas Subash Khakurel included 26. However, other batters battled against Sudurpaschim's disciplined bowling.

Airee was the choose of the bowlers for Sudurpaschim, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs in his 4 overs. Saif Zaib claimed 2 wickets, whereas Scott Kuggeleijn and Abinash Bohara chipped in with one each.

Sudurpaschim will presently play the victor of Thursday’s Qualifier 2 between Janakpur Bolts and Karnali Yaks in Saturday’s final.

source: thekathmandupost.