Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Chitwan Rhinos improved their playoff prospects with a four-wicket victory over Janakpur Bolts in a low-scoring encounter at the TU International Cricket Stadium on Friday.
Batting first after winning the toss, Janakpur managed just 88/9 in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, Chitwan reached 92 for the loss of seven wickets in 17.2 overs.
The result means Janakpur, who have four points from seven matches, are out of the playoff race. Chitwan, on the other hand, have seven points from six matches. They next face Karnali Yaks on Sunday.
Lumbini Lions and Sudurpaschim Royals have already secured their playoff berths. With Pokhara Avengers, Janakpur Bolts and Karnali Yaks out of the playoff race, Chitwan Rhinos, Biratnagar Kings and Kathmandu Gorkhas are vying for the remaining two spots.
Captain Harmeet Singh top-scored for Janakpur with a run-a-ball 25. Bishal Shusling made 15, while Santosh Karki and Rahul Yadav chipped in with 10 each. The other Janakpur batters failed to reach double figures.
Ranjit Kumar picked up three wickets for the Rhinos, while Sikandar Raza and Kamil Mishara claimed two each. Kamal Airee and Rijan Dhakal chipped in with a wicket apiece.
Chitwan lost opener Arjun Saud for a duck in their chase of 89. However, Kamil Mishara (12) and Ravi Bopara (13) steadied the innings before Dawid Malan scored an unbeaten 35 to take Chitwan home. Kushal Malla scored 15, while Kamal Airee remained unbeaten on seven.
Rahul Yadav claimed three wickets for Janakpur, while Lalit Rajbanshi picked up two and Bishal Shusling took one.
Chitwan will face Karnali Yaks in their final league-stage fixture on Sunday.
Biratnagar and Lumbini Lions play their final league-stage matches on Saturday evening. Biratnagar need to win to remain in contention for the playoffs, while victory will guarantee the Lions a place in Qualifier 1.
