Janakpur Knights won the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Nepal Kabaddi League with a thrilling 45-41 victory over Kathmandu Mavericks in the final at the Dasharath Stadium’s covered hall in Kathmandu on Friday.

Janakpur dominated the first half and headed into the break with a commanding 25-19 lead.

However, Kathmandu staged a spirited comeback after the interval, spearheaded by captain Ghanashyam Rokka Magar, and edged ahead 41-39 with less than a minute remaining.

But Kathmandu faltered in the dramatic final seconds, allowing Janakpur to seize control and secure the championship.

Janakpur amassed 19 from raids, 13 from tackles, six from all-outs and seven bonus points, while Kathmandu earned 10 raid points, 11 from tackles, executed two all-outs and secured 18 bonus points.

Janakpur also remained unbeaten en route to the title.

Janakpur took home a cash prize of Rs500,000, while runners-up Kathmandu received Rs200,000.

Rokka Magar of Kathmandu won best raider award, while Janakpur’s Tanongsak Srihera was adjudged the best defender.