Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Last season’s bottom-placed side, Lumbini Lions, began their Nepal Premier League (NPL) campaign on a positive note, defeating Chitwan Rhinos by six wickets in Match No. 5 at the TU International Cricket Grounds on Thursday.
Sent in to bat first after losing the toss, Chitwan posted a below-par 142 for the loss of seven wickets after a shaky start. In reply, Lumbini scored 146 with nine balls to spare.
Chitwan, which defeated Karnali by four wickets in their first match, lost opener Dawid Malan for a duck off the second ball of the innings. Fellow opener Deepak Bohora (10) and No. 3 batter, Dev Khanal (14), also departed cheaply, leaving the side under early pressure. Ravi Bopara, however, continued his fine run of form, scoring a composed 66 off 55 balls. However, Chitwan had to settle for a below-par score as Bopara did not get support from the other end. Captain Kushal Malla and the dependable Saif Zaib managed only 21 and 15, respectively.
Ruben Trumplemann led Lumbini’s attack with three wickets. Abhishesh Gautam and Gulbadin Naib chipped in with two wickets apiece for the winning side.
In reply, Lumbini also lost wickets at intervals but maintained control of the chase. Openers Sundeep Jora and D’Arcy Short put on 24 runs before Short fell for 11 off six deliveries. Sundeep went on to score 28 off 18 balls, while Captain Rohit Paudel steadied the innings with a composed 39 off 44 balls. Dilip Nath added 10. Gulbadin Naib then scored an explosive 44 off 24 balls to ensure Lumbini’s win with nine balls to spare.
For Chitwan, Rijan Dhakal picked up two wickets and Sohail Tanvir claimed one.
Friday’s Fixtures:
Pokhara Avengers vs Sudurpaschim Royals
