Sudurpaschim Royals set a target of 168 runs for Kathmandu Gurkhas in their second match of the ongoing Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Thursday.

Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, Kathmandu restricted Sudurpaschim to 167 runs at the loss of six wickets in the allotted 20 overs.

Sudurpaschim’s batting was led by Brandon McMullen, who scored a quick 53 off 31 balls, including three fours and four sixes. He partnered with Binod Bhandari (35 off 30 balls) for an 86-run stand for the second wicket before being caught off the bowling of Gerhard Erasmus.

Skipper Dipendra Singh Airee contributed a vital 43 off 25 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes, before being caught by Michael Levitt off Karan KC’s delivery.

Kathmandu’s bowlers were led by Rashid Khan, who picked up two wickets, while Karan KC, Sahab Alam, and Gerhard Erasmus claimed a wicket each.

Kathmandu will need a strong batting performance to chase the 168-run target and secure their second victory in the tournament.

In their respective opening matches, Sudurpaschim defeated Biratnagar Kings by 90 runs, while Kathmandu overcame Karnali Yaks by three wickets.