Biratnagar Kings registered a commanding 51-run victory over Chitwan Rhinos in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Friday.

Biratnagar opted to bat first after winning the toss, but their decision was quickly tested as they lost early wickets. Lokesh Bam was dismissed for a duck in the first over, and Dipak Bohara followed soon after for four. The Kings were in deep trouble at 4-2 in the first over.

Scott Edwards failed to make an impact, departing for a golden duck, and Biratnagar were reeling at 10-3. However, Martin Guptill (45 off 35 balls) and Basir Ahamad (68 not out off 44 balls) steadied the ship with a crucial 88-run partnership. Ahamad’s power-hitting, including four boundaries and two sixes, gave the Kings the momentum they desperately needed.

The pair guided Biratnagar to 98-4 by the 14th over. Ahamad and Rajesh Pulami (33 not out off 20 balls) then unleashed a flurry of boundaries, adding 83 unbeaten runs in quick time. Pulami’s rapid-fire knock ensured Biratnagar finished with a formidable total of 181-5 in 20 overs.

Chasing 182, Chitwan started on a poor note. Hassan Eisakhil was trapped lbw by Basir Ahamad for 5, and Santosh Karki (28 off 25 balls) was caught by Basir off Sandeep Lamichhane, leaving the Rhinos at 56-2. Ravi Bopara’s departure for 20 off 24 balls, dismissed by Subash Bhandari, further hindered Chitwan’s progress.

Kushal Malla (25) fell to Chris Sole, and the Rhinos were 64-4 in the 11th over. Basil Hameed was dismissed for 1, leaving Chitwan at 64/5. Amar Routela played a defiant knock of 42 off 29 balls but could not carry his side home. Once he was dismissed with the score at 129-6, the result was sealed.

Chitwan finished at 130-6, falling short by 51 runs. Biratnagar’s bowlers, led by Lamichhane and Ahamad, kept the pressure on throughout the chase, ensuring a comfortable victory.

This is Biratnagar’s second win in the NPL. With this victory, Biratnagar has garnered 4 points from six matches, keeping their slim hopes of making it to the playoffs alive.

On the other hand, Chitwan suffered their third defeat in six matches, dealing a significant blow to their playoff aspirations. With six points from six matches, Chitwan remains in fourth place.