Dhangadhi Wildcats progressed into the playoff stage of the Nepal Kabaddi League after they defeated Himalayan Raiders 41-38 in their league-stage clash at the Dasharath Stadium’s covered hall in Kathmandu on Saturday.

The victory confirmed Dhangadhi a fourth-placed finish in the six team standings with 11 points from five games. Himalayan, who have six points from five games, were eliminated.

Janakpur Knights, Kathmandu Mavericks and Biratnagar have already entered the playoffs.

Pokhara Lakers have already crashed out.

The playoff stage will kick off on Monday with the top two teams facing off in Qualifier 1 for a direct ticket to the final. The second and third-placed teams will clash in the Eliminator on the same day, with the winner progressing to the second qualifier. The second qualifier on Wednesday will see the Eliminator winners take on the losing side from Qualifier 1 for the remaining berth in the final, set for January 31.