Chitwan survive Russell blitz to beat Biratnagar by eight runs

KATHMANDU: Chitwan Rhinos defeated Biratnagar Kings by eight runs in a thrilling contest in Match No. 2 of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) in Kathmandu on Tuesday.

Sent in to bat after losing the toss, Chitwan scored 157 runs for the loss of three wickets. In reply, Biratnagar Kings fell eight runs short, despite a 17-ball 33 from Andre Russell.

Chitwan Rhinos started brightly and added 58 runs for the first wicket. Although opener Dev Khanal fell for 12 off 15 balls in the seventh over, fellow opener Dawid Malan scored 70 off 50 balls to give momentum to the innings. His composed knock included five sixes and as many fours. Captain Ravi Bopara and Dan Mousley scored unbeaten 32 and 29, respectively.

Angelo Mathews, Andre Russell and Charith Asalanka took a wicket each for Biratnagar Kings.

Biratnagar also started the chase brightly, with their openers adding 40 runs within the first five overs. Imran Sheikh scored 39 off 31 balls, while Lokesh Bam contributed 26 off 14 balls.

The Kings, however, suffered a batting collapse after the first wicket fell and lost wickets at regular intervals. Charith Asalanka made eight, Basir Ahamad contributed 13 and Angelo Mathews chipped in with 14. Although Russell’s aggressive knock brought Biratnagar back into the game, they lost their last five wickets in just 13 balls and were all out for 149.

Shubham Ranjane scored 10, while Naren Saud remained unbeaten on two. Rupesh Singh, Pratis GC and captain Sandeep Lamichhane were dismissed for ducks.

Kamal Singh Airee claimed four wickets for Chitwan, conceding 26 runs, while Rijan Dhakal picked up two. Tom Taylor, Ranjit Kumar, Dan Mousley and Mousam Dhakal chipped in with a wicket each.

Karnali Yaks take on Janakpur Bolts in Match No. 3 of the NPL on Tuesday evening.