Janakpur Bolts have set Lumbini Lions a 133-run target in Friday’s Nepal Premier League (NPL) match at the TU International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.

Defending champions Janakpur, under pressure to keep their title hopes alive, managed 132 for six in the allotted 20 overs after winning the toss and opting to bat first. Their batting unit once again fell short of expectations in a must-win encounter.

Sangeeth Cooray top-scored for Janakpur with a steady 45, while opener Aasif Sheikh contributed 20 off 17 balls. Fellow opener Maaz Sadaqat was dismissed for just six. Anil Sah departed cheaply, scoring only seven, and Subash Khakurel managed 11. Sanjay Krishnamurthi added 14, while Mayan Yadav provided a late lift with 27 runs.

Lumbini’s bowlers maintained disciplined lines throughout the innings. Sher Malla was the pick of the attack, taking two wickets for 20 runs. Captain Rohit Paudel also impressed, claiming two wickets for just 15 runs.

Lumbini will advance to the playoffs if they successfully chase the 133-run target.