Sudurpashchim Royals made a winning start to their Nepal Premier League (NPL) campaign on Wednesday, defeating Kathmandu Gorkhas by 29 runs at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

Chasing a target of 148, Kathmandu were bowled out for 118 in 16.5 overs after losing wickets at regular intervals.

Only opener Aakash Tripathi offered notable resistance, scoring 34 off 30 balls with a four and two sixes before falling to Harmeet Singh.

John Simpson struck 24 from 18, but the rest of the batting line-up failed to build partnerships as the Royals’ bowlers tightened control.

Hemant Dhami, Scott Kuggeleijn and Harmeet Singh each claimed two wickets, ensuring Kathmandu—who had beaten Janakpur Bolts in their first match—could not mount a serious chase. Both teams now stand on two points from two matches.

Earlier, invited to bat first, Sudurpashchim recovered from a shaky start to post 147 all out in 20 overs.

Last year’s runners-up were lifted by a blistering 53 off 20 balls from Harmeet, whose knock featured two fours and four sixes. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee added a steady 39 from 30 deliveries.

Kathmandu skipper Karan KC was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 4 for 30.