Kathmandu Gurkhas managed a below-par 112-run target against Chitwan Rhinos in the second match of the Nepal Premier League at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Monday.

Chitwan’s decision to bowl first paid off instantly, with Sohail Tanvir removing opener Stephen Eskinazi for just two runs in the first over. Tanvir continued to wreak havoc, dismissing Michael Levitt (25 off 16) in the fourth over after the latter’s brief counterattack featuring four boundaries and a six.

Sumit Maharjan tried to stabilise the innings with a laboured 29 off 41 balls but found no support as wickets tumbled at regular intervals. Gerhard Erasmus (4) and Bhim Sharki (1) fell cheaply, leaving Kathmandu reeling at 34-4 inside the powerplay.

Shankar Rana’s 16 off 17 balls provided a glimmer of hope, but Amar Routela’s precise bowling ensured his departure. Dan Douthwaite chipped in with 19 off 18 towards the end, but the Gurkhas ultimately limped to 111-9 in their 20 overs.

Tanvir’s 5-21 was the highlight of the innings, with tight spells from Amar Routela (1-9) and Rijan Dhakal (1-22) keeping the pressure on.