Sudurpaschim Royals posted a formidable target of 183-run against Biratnagar Kings in the ongoing Nepal Premier League match at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Tuesday.

Despite early setbacks, the Royals set a challenging target, largely due to Captain Dipendra Singh Airee’s brilliant knock of 57 not out from just 24 balls, which included three fours and five sixes.

The innings began on a shaky note, with the Royals losing Amit Shrestha (1) early, caught by Martin Guptill off Ismat Alam in the second over. Binod Bhandari (23) and Brandon McMullen (36) steadied the ship, but both fell to Anil Kharel, with Bhandari caught by Pratis GC and Brandon McMullen dismissed similarly. Aarif Sheikh (9) and Saif Zaib (14) also departed quickly, as the Royals struggled at 69-4 by the 11th over.

However, Airee’s aggressive stroke play turned the game in favour of the Royals. His rapid-fire innings included a flurry of boundaries and sixes, providing the necessary acceleration in the latter stages. Ishan Pandey (21) also contributed to the cause before being run out.

Scott Kuggeleijn (10) and Basant Khatri (4) added brief cameos, but it was Airee who took charge, guiding the Royals to a competitive total. The Royals finished their innings at 182-7.