Sudurpaschim Royals have set a 156-run target for Biratnagar Kings in Qualifier 1 of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) after posting 155 for seven at the TU International Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

Sent in to bat, Sudurpaschim were anchored by opener Binod Bhandari, who top-scored with 63 runs off 52 balls, including three fours and two sixes. It was his second half-century of the season. Aarif Sheikh provided late acceleration, striking 20 off 13 deliveries.

Pakistan opener Mukhtar Ahmad managed 10 in his first match of the tournament, while Sheldon Jackson, also making his debut, added 20 off 11 balls. Ishan Pandey contributed 13 before falling to Sam Heazlett, with Naren Bhatta taking a sharp boundary catch. Dipendra Singh Airee was run out for three, and Harmeet Singh scored 14.

Biratnagar’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Pratish GC and Marchant de Lange picking up two wickets each.

The winner of the match will advance directly to the final, while the losing side will play in Qualifier 2 against the winner of the Eliminator.