Janakpur Bolts continued their dominant run, securing their third consecutive victory with a seven-wicket win over Pokhara Avengers in the ongoing Nepal Premier League (NPL), at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Thursday.

Chasing a modest target of 139 runs set by Pokhara, Janakpur reached their goal in just 17.1 overs at the loss of three wickets. Lahiru Milantha led the charge with a quick-fire 45 runs off 32 balls, including eight boundaries. Supporting him, Aasif Sheikh scored 33 off 34 balls, while James Neesham and Harsh Thaker remained unbeaten on 40 and 13 runs respectively.

For Pokhara, bowlers Bipin Khatri, Michael Leask, and Kushal Bhurtel claimed one wicket each.

Earlier, after electing to bat first, Pokhara managed a total of 138/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Matthew Cross top-scored with 35 runs off 30 balls, including three fours and a six, before being caught off Lalit Rajbanshi's bowling. Michael Leask added a brisk 25 runs off 12 balls but was dismissed by Kishore Mahato.

The Pokhara innings faced consistent setbacks, losing wickets at regular intervals. Dinesh Kharel and Andres Ghosh, the openers, were dismissed for 10 and 16 runs, respectively. Rameon Reifer contributed 17 runs before being caught out off James Neesham.

For Janakpur, Lalit Rajbanshi was the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets for 31 runs in his four overs. James Neesham claimed two wickets, while Mohammad Mohsin and Kishore Mahato took one wicket each.

This victory places Janakpur at the top of the table with six points, maintaining their unbeaten streak in the tournament. In contrast, Pokhara’s struggles continued as they succumbed to their second consecutive defeat.

Later today, Sudurpaschim Royals will face Kathmandu Gurkhas in the second match of the day, scheduled to begin at 1 pm.