Chitwan Rhinos handed Sudurpaschim Royals their first defeat in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Sunday, securing a 33-run victory in the second match of the day at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.

Batting first after winning the toss, Chitwan posted a competitive total of 164 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Opener Hassan Eisakhil led the charge with an impressive 65 runs off 52 balls, smashing six fours and three sixes. Ravi Bopara contributed 36 runs off 18 balls, including two sixes and two fours.

For Sudurpaschim, Scott Kuggeleijn took two wickets, while Dipendra Singh Airee, Brandon McMullen, and Saif Zaib each claimed one.

In reply, Sudurpaschim were bowled out for 131 runs in 18.2 overs. Ishan Pandey top-scored with 35 runs off 28 balls, hitting four fours and a six, before being caught off Amar Routela’s bowling. Contributions from Saif Zaib (18), Brandon McMullen (13), and Dilpreet Bajwa (12) fell short as the batting lineup struggled against Chitwan’s disciplined bowling attack.

Chitwan’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Kushal Malla, Jean Nicol Leask, Rijan Dhakal, and Amar Rautela taking two wickets each. Sohail Tanvir and Ranjit Kumar chipped in with a wicket apiece.,

The win places Chitwan Rhinos in third position on the points table with six points from four matches, while Sudurpaschim Royals hold the second spot due to a superior net run rate. Janakpur Bolts remain unbeaten at the top with eight points.

In the earlier match, Janakpur Bolts narrowly defeated Lumbini Lions by one run in a thrilling contest.