Sudurpaschim Royals sets 183-run target for Biratnagar Kings

KATHMANDU: The Sudurpaschim Royals set a challenging goal of 183 runs against the Biratnagar Kings in the Nepal Premier League encounter at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee, who played just 24 balls and hammered three fours and five sixes, amassed an incredible unbeaten 57-run knock to help the Royals overcome early difficulties.

The Royals lost opener Amit Shrestha for only a single run in the second over as he was caught by Martin Guptill off Ismat Alam, giving the innings a shaky start. With scores of 23 and 36, respectively, Binod Bhandari and Brandon McMullen provided some consistency, but both were bowled out by Anil Kharel. By the eleventh over, the side was reeling at 69-4, and their situation appeared vulnerable.

The momentum was turned back in the Royals' favor by Airee's comeback. In the second half of the innings, he gave much-needed acceleration with his explosive batting. Airee's efforts were bolstered by the contributions of Ishan Pandey, who hit 21 before being run out, and also support from other teammates.

Basant Khatri and Scott Kuggeleijn both contributed with quick but helpful hits of four and ten runs, respectively. But the squad managed to post a competitive score despite losing wickets at frequently thanks to Airee's outstanding performance.

The Royals set the Kings a challenging target at 182-7 at the end of their innings. After initial disappointments, Airee's aggressive batting and leadership were essential in reviving the team's chances.