President and PM congratulate NPL champions Janakpur Bolts

KATHMANDU: The Janakpur Bolts won the first Nepal Premier League (NPL) championship, cementing their position in history. The Bolts defeated the Sudurpaschim Royalsby five wickets in the final game played on Saturday at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, becoming the first NPL champions. 

President Ram Chandra Paudel posted a message on X (previously Twitter) congratulating the Janakpur Bolts on their win. In addition to praising the team for their achievement in the first season, he expressed hope that subsequent NPL seasons would be more successful and exciting than the first.  

On Facebook, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also sent his congratulations, emphasizing the significance of the Janakpur Bolts' victory. "Congratulations to the Janakpur Bolts on their first NPL championship. Moreover, the performance of the Sudurpaschim Royals was remarkable. This concludes a long festival of Nepali cricket." "All teams, organizers, and managers who helped make this event a success have my sincere gratitude," he added.

Chasing a target of 185 in 19.2 overs, the Janakpur Bolts overcame the loss of five wickets to clinch the final. Lahiru Milantha's 87 off 49 balls set the foundation, with vital contributions from Harsh Thaker (30) and captain Ashif Sheikh (33 off 19 balls). The Bolts were awarded the championship trophy and Rs 11.1 million in prize money.

Even though the Royals got off to a great start with openers Binod Bhandari and Saif Zaib scoring an outstanding 117-run partnership, their bowling and fielding shortcomings ultimately cost them the match. With three wickets apiece, Bolt's bowlers Kishore Mahato and Mohammad Mohsin played a key role in limiting the Royals' total.  

Both PM Oli and President Paudel recognized the Sudurpaschim Royals' contribution to an entertaining final and praised their spirit of competition. Their efforts demonstrated Nepali cricket's increasing national potential.  

Prime Minister Oli pointed out that the NPL is a first step toward taking Nepali cricket to new heights. He also reiterated the government's dedication to fostering the growth of sports and developing new talent.  

The successful conclusion of the NPL's inaugural season was a major turning point for Nepali cricket. Both leaders voiced optimism for the future and said they were sure that these competitions would enhance the nation's athletic heritage.