Sudurpaschim Royals Dominate Kathmandu Gurkhas in NPL Match

The Sudurpaschim Royals (SPR) secured an emphatic victory over the Kathmandu Gurkhas (KAG) in the second match of the day in the ongoing Nepal Premier League (NPL) at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground.

Chasing a target of 168 runs set by the Royals, the Gurkhas were bowled out for a mere 94 runs in just 15.5 overs. KAG’s Stephen Eskinazi top-scored with 37 off 33 balls, including one six and five boundaries. Other contributors included Sumit Maharjan (14), Bhim Sarki (10), and Gerhard Erasmus (10). The remaining batting lineup collapsed, with key players like Rashid Khan, Karan KC, and Nathan Sowter managing only single-digit scores.

SPR’s Naren Saud delivered an exceptional performance, claiming five wickets. Abinash Bohora added two wickets, while Brandon McMullen and Saif Zaib picked one apiece.

Earlier, put in to bat after losing the toss, the Royals posted a competitive 167/6 in their 20 overs. Brandon McMullen shone with a powerful 54 off 36 balls, featuring four sixes and three boundaries. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee contributed a brisk 42 off 25 balls, while Binod Bhandari chipped in with 35 runs.

For the Gurkhas, Rashid Khan led the bowling attack with two wickets, while Gerhard Erasmus, Shahab Alam, and captain Karan KC claimed one wicket each.

This victory marks SPR’s second win in the tournament, having previously defeated the Biratnagar Kings by 90 runs. Meanwhile, the Kathmandu Gurkhas suffered their second defeat, having won only one of their three matches so far.

The match underscores the Royals’ growing momentum in the NPL as the tournament progresses.