In a commanding performance at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, Sudurpaschim Royals emerged victorious over Kathmandu Gurkhas by 73 runs in their second match of the Nepal Premier League (NPL).

After being called to bat, Sudurpaschim set a target of 168 runs with a score of 167/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Skipper Dipendra Singh Airee played a pivotal role, smashing 43 runs off just 25 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Brandon McMullen also impressed, scoring a brisk 53 from 36 balls, featuring three fours and four sixes. Binod Bhandari contributed a solid 35 off 28 balls, forming a crucial 86-run partnership with McMullen for the second wicket.

Kathmandu Gurkhas’ chase got off to a shaky start, losing key wickets quickly. Naren Saud, who had just returned from the ACC U-19 Asia Cup in the UAE, delivered a match-winning performance with figures of 5/19 from 3.5 overs. His outstanding spell included four wickets in just 11 balls. Abinash Bohara also bowled economically, taking 2/12 from three overs, while McMullen and Saif Zaib each picked up a wicket.

The Gurkhas were bowled out for 94 in 15.5 overs, with Stephen Eskinazi top-scoring with 37 runs from 35 balls, including five fours and one six. Other contributors included Sumit Maharjan (14), Bhim Sharki and Gerhard Erasmus, who each made 10. The rest of the lineup, including Michael Levitt (5), Shankar Rana (3), and Rashid Khan (2), struggled to build partnerships.

Rashid Khan led the Gurkhas’ bowling with figures of 2/20 from four overs, while Karan KC, Shahab Alam, and Erasmus claimed one wicket each.

Sudurpaschim Royals’ win follows their impressive 90-run victory over Biratnagar Kings in their opening match, while Kathmandu Gurkhas had previously secured a three-wicket win against Karnali Yaks in their second match.