In a thrilling encounter at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, the Biratnagar Kings clinched a narrow but a record victory over the Lumbini Lions by 2 wickets in the 7th match of the Nepal Premier League.
Batting first, the Lions posted a highest total of 191 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Captain Rohit Kumar Paudel led the charge with a brisk 46 off 29 balls, including four boundaries and two sixes. England’s Tom Moores contributed a quickfire 30 off 17 deliveries, while Bibek Yadav’s unbeaten 19 off just 7 balls provided a late surge. The Lions’ innings was bolstered by 29 extras, a significant portion of their total.
Chasing a record total, the Kings faced early setbacks but were steadied by opener Lokesh Bam and Basir Ahamad. Bam smashed 71 off 47 deliveries, including 3 fours and 6 sixes. Ahamad also contributed crucial 40 runs off 23 balls in a crucial 77 runs partnership for the fifth wicket that took the chase so deep.
Earlier, Martin Guptill added a brisk 28 off 16 deliveries. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the Kings maintained the required run rate, needing 15 runs to win in the last 6 balls. Skipper Paudel gambled by bringing the most expensive bowler Bibek Yadav, who had went for 49 runs in his last three overs. Yadav gave away two wides and dismissed Sandeep Lamichhane, however, Chris Sole had other ideas. Yadav produced a gold dot but next three deliveries went for SIX, FOUR, FOUR and Kings reached the target with one ball to spare.
This victory marked Biratnagar Kings’ first win of the tournament, providing them with crucial momentum as the Nepal Premier League progresses.
Key Performances:
Lumbini Lions:
Rohit Kumar Paudel: 46 runs (29 balls)
Tom Moores: 30 runs (17 balls)
Bibek Yadav: 19* runs (7 balls)
Biratnagar Kings:
Lokesh Bam: 71 runs (47 balls)
Martin Guptill: 28 runs (16 balls)
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