Janakpur Bolts have given Kathmandu Gorkhas a 131-run target in the opening match of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the TU International Cricket Ground.

Invited to bat first after losing the toss, defending champions Janakpur posted 130 runs for six wickets in the allotted 20 overs.

Aasif Sheikh was the standout performer with a composed half-century. He struck 54 runs off 41 deliveries, hitting six fours and a six. Mayan Yadav contributed a steady 34, while Lahiru Samarakkody added 22 runs.

Lahiru Milantha scored seven, and Kishor Mahato was dismissed for four.

Kathmandu’s bowling effort was led by Milind Kumar, who took three wickets, while Karan KC, Shahab Alam and Santosh Yadav claimed a wicket each.

The second season of the NPL began on Monday amid strict security, with over 1,500 police personnel, CCTV systems and drone surveillance deployed to ensure safety at the venue, authorities said.