Binod Bhandari’s unbeaten half-century led Sudurpaschim Royals to an 8-wicket victory over Janakpur Bolts on Wednesday, securing a spot in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) final at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.

Chasing a target of 140 in Qualifier 1, Sudurpaschim reached the mark comfortably in 18.3 overs. Bhandari scored an unbeaten 58 off 55 balls, including three boundaries and three sixes. His knock was supported by partnership between Saif Zaib (32 off 21) and Brandon McMullen (23 off 19). Captain Dipendra Singh Airee contributed a quick 21 off 16 balls to finish the chase.

Janakpur, electing to bat first, managed 139 for 9 in their 20 overs. Jimmy Neesham top-scored with a quickfire 45 off 23 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes, while Subash Khakurel added 26. However, other batters struggled against Sudurpaschim's disciplined bowling.

Airee was the pick of the bowlers for Sudurpaschim, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs in his 4 overs. Saif Zaib claimed 2 wickets, while Scott Kuggeleijn and Abinash Bohara chipped in with one each.

Sudurpaschim will now play the winner of Thursday’s Qualifier 2 between Janakpur Bolts and Karnali Yaks in Saturday’s final.