Sudurpaschim defeat Karnali, securing top spot in NPL

KATHMANDU: The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur hosted the Nepal Premier League's last league-stage match on Monday, where the Sudurpaschim Royals defeated Karnali Yaks by a commanding six wickets. In order to win, Sudurpaschim easily achieved 105 for 4 in 15.2 overs while chasing a modest target of 102.

Ishan Pandey and captain Dipendra Singh Airee, who both hit 38 runs, served as the cornerstones of the Royals' chase. Pandey put up a solid 38 off 36 balls, while Airee produced a rapid 38 from 29 deliveries that included four boundaries and a six. Even though Sudurpaschim lost a few wickets early on, they worked together to make sure the team kept control.

After a promising start, Karnali Yaks' bowlers found it difficult to restrain the Royals. Bipin Sharma and Nandan Yadav each claimed a wicket as captain Sompal Kami grabbed 1 for 20 in 2.2 overs. Nevertheless, they were unable to stop Sudurpaschim's calm pursuit.

Karnali Yaks, who lost the toss and batted first, was bowled out for just 101 runs in 20 overs earlier. Under Sudurpaschim's methodical bowling approach, the batting order stumbled, with Zeeshan Maqsood leading the way with 30 from 35 balls. Sompal Kami (11) and William Bosisto (16) were the only other significant contributors.

Sudurpaschim's bowlers were exceptional, led by Harmeet Singh, who claimed 3 for 17 in his four overs. Scott Kuggeleijn and Dipendra Singh Airee took two wickets each, while Saif Zaib chipped in with one. The bowlers effectively restricted Karnali’s scoring opportunities, allowing only four players to reach double figures.

Despite the loss, Karnali Yaks secured the fourth spot in the playoffs, eliminating Kathmandu Gurkhas, who needed Sudurpaschim to chase the target within 13 overs to advance. Sudurpaschim’s failure to meet that condition ensured Karnali’s progression to the next stage.

Now, the playoff lineup is finalized. In the first qualifier, the Sudurpaschim Royals, who came in first place with 12 points from seven games, will play the Janakpur Bolts, who came in second. This match's victor will advance directly to the championship game.

Third-place finisher Chitwan Rhinos will face fourth-place Karnali Yaks in the elimination round. The winner of the eliminator will then have another opportunity to go to the final by facing the loser of the first qualifier in the second qualifier.

Sudurpaschim is a formidable competitor as the tournament enters its playoff phase because of their outstanding league campaign. High stakes are expected in the final as the top teams compete for the championship title.