The Sudur Paschim Royals cemented their position at the top of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) standings with a convincing 18-run victory over the Pokhara Avengers in a high-scoring encounter at the Tribhuvan University International Ground in Kirtipur.
Pokhara Avengers opted to bowl first after winning the toss, hoping to take advantage of early conditions. However, things did not go according to plan. The opening duo of Josh Brown and Binod Bhandari came out all guns blazing and immediately put the Avengers bowlers under pressure. Their aggressive approach set the tone for the innings, with boundaries flowing from both ends, Josh Brown was in exceptional touch, timing the ball beautifully and clearing the ropes with ease. He reached his fifty in quick time and kept accelerating, scoring a brilliant 68 runs off just 35 deliveries. His knock included six fours and five towering sixes, making it one of the standout performances of the match. Bhandari supported him well, rotating the strike and punishing loose balls played 43 Runs knock off 42 balls,Together, they built a powerful 108-run partnership in just 10 overs, giving the Royals a commanding platform.
Even after the breakup of the opening stand, the Royals continued their aggressive intent. Chris Lynn walked in and wasted no time, hammering a quick-fire 31 off 13 balls to keep the scoreboard ticking. At one point, it looked like the Royals were on track for a total well past 200. However, the Avengers managed to regain control in the later overs.
Jimmy Neesham was the pick of the bowlers for Pokhara, finishing with figures of 3 for 47, while Dan Douthwaite and Akash Chand chipped with a 2 wickets, Despite their efforts, the early carnage ensured that the Royals reached a strong total of 193 for 7 in 20 overs.
Chasing a target of 194, the Pokhara Avengers got off to a shaky and costly start, including the run-out of Adam Rossington. Dinesh Kharel also fell early as Harmeet Singh struck, leaving the Avengers struggling at 25 for 3 inside the Powerplay.
With the required run rate climbing rapidly, captain Kushal Bhurtel and Jimmy Neesham took charge. Bhurtel looked solid and determined, playing smart cricket to rebuild the innings. He reached a well-made fifty off 31 balls and kept the chase alive. His innings provided much-needed stability, but his dismissal for 53 came at a crucial moment and shifted the momentum back to the Royals
Neesham 47 runs off 25 deliveries,tried to anchor the innings while Dan Douthwaite with quickfire 37 off 16 deliveries . Despite their efforts, but it was not enough. They finished on 175 for 8, falling short by 18 runs.
Harmeet Singh Washington pick of the bowler for Sudur Paschim Royals took 2/22 in 4 overs while Scott kuggeleijn, Dipendra Singh Airee, Abinash Bohra and Naren Saud gets one wicket each.
NPL SPR vs POA Match summary
Toss: Pokhara Avengers won the toss and Opted to bowl first
Sudur Paschim Royals innings: 193/7 in 20 overs
Top performer: Josh Brown 68 runs off 35 deliveries , James Neesham 3/47 in 4 overs
Pokhara Avengers innings: 175/8 in 20 overs
Top performer: Kushal Bhurtel 53 runs off 32 balls, Harmeet Singh 2/22 in 4 overs
Result: Sudur Paschim Royals won by 18 runs
Player of the match: Josh Brown 68 runs off 35 deliveries
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