Karnali Yaks registered their maiden victory in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) by defeating Chitwan Rhinos by six wickets at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Friday. This was a crucial comeback for Karnali, who had lost their first two matches in the tournament.

Chasing a target of 131 runs set by Chitwan, Karnali achieved the score with just one ball to spare, losing four wickets in the process. Opener Shikhar Dhawan led the charge with an impressive 45 runs off 41 balls, featuring four boundaries and a six. Dhawan’s efforts were complemented by Chadwick Walton’s 30 [off 19 balls], including three sixes.

Earlier, Chitwan Rhinos, who were sent to bat after losing the toss, managed 130/7 in their 20 overs. Ravi Bopara was the standout performer for Chitwan, scoring an unbeaten 59 runs off 40 balls, which included seven fours and a six. However, the Rhinos struggled at the start, losing three wickets for just 22 runs in the power play.

Karnali’s bowling attack, led by Bipin Sharma with figures of 3/21, played a crucial role in restricting Chitwan. Zeeshan Maqsood took two wickets, while Sompal Kami and Nandan Yadav took a wicket each. Arjun Bitalu was run out at 11 [off 10 balls].

Chitwan’s bowlers, including Kushal Malla, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, and Ravi Bopara, picked up one wicket each, but their efforts were not enough to stop Karnali’s determined chase.

This victory marked Karnali’s first win in the tournament, while Chitwan Rhinos suffered their first defeat after winning their first two matches.