Bolts to chase target of 139-Run set by Pokhara Avengers

KATHMANDU: The Pokhara Avengers scored 139 runs against the Janakpur Bolts in their second Nepal Premier League (NPL) match on Thursday at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Despite playing better than they had in the last game, the Avengers ended their innings at 139/7 in the allotted 20 overs.

In contrast to their opening match against the Chitwan Rhinos, where they were bowled for just 74 runs and lost badly by 87 runs, the team showed a noticeable improvement. This time, openers Andries Gous and Dinesh Kharel got off to a solid start, scoring 32 runs before the first wicket was removed.

Andries Gous contributed 20 runs off 16 balls before being bowled by Lalit Rajbanshi, while Dinesh Kharel was dismissed by James Neesham. Skipper Kushal Bhurtel's rough patch continued as he was run out for just 6 runs off 6 balls. Dilip Nath managed 11 off 14 balls before falling as the fourth wicket with the team at 70 runs.

The Avengers’ innings gained some stability through Mathew Critchley, who top-scored with a composed 35 off 30 balls. He was supported by Raymon Reifer, who added 17 off 20 balls, and Michael Leask, who provided late fireworks with a quick 25 off just 13 balls in the final over.

Throughout the innings, the Bolts' bowlers applied pressure, with Lalit Rajbanshi spearheading the assault with three vital wickets. The Avengers managed a respectable score thanks to two wickets from James Neesham, one apiece from Muhammad Mohsin and Kishore Mahato.

At 1:15 pm, the Kathmandu Gurkhas will play the Sudurpaschim Royals in the second game of the day, which should be an exciting match in the ongoing NPL competition.