Kirtipur: The defending champions Janakpur Bolts have recorded their first victory in the second edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in the capital. Janakpur defeated the Chitwan Rhinos by six wickets, marking their maiden win in this year’s tournament.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Janakpur had previously lost four consecutive matches but managed to secure two points with this victory. On the other hand, Chitwan Rhinos have won only two out of their five matches so far. Janakpur Bolts chased down a target of 177 runs in 17.3 overs, losing four wickets in the process.
Janakpur’s victory was powered by commendable half-centuries from Maz Sadaqat and Anil Sah, who scored 63 and 61 runs respectively. On the bowling side, Chitwan’s Kamal Singh Airee, Sahil Tanveer, and Amar Singh Rautela each claimed a wicket.
Earlier in the match, Chitwan won the toss and elected to bat first, posting a total of 176 runs for the loss of four wickets in the allotted 20 overs. The opening pair, Dawid Malan and Arjun Saud, both hit half-centuries, contributing 80 and 52 runs respectively. Their partnership saw a significant 112-run stand.
From Janakpur’s side, bowlers Anil Shah, Rupesh Singh, Maaz Sadaqat, and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton each took one wicket.
In another development, the Pokhara Avengers and Karnali Yaks are set to compete in the second match this afternoon at 4:00 pm.
Meanwhile, Anil Sah of the Janakpur Bolts became the 21st player to score a half-century in the ongoing tournament. He achieved this feat against Chitwan Rhinos with three sixes and two fours in just 28 balls. So far, the tournament has seen 25 half-centuries in its second edition.