Sudurpaschim win sends both Royals and Kathmandu Gorkhas into playoffs

Sudurpaschim Royals produced a disciplined bowling performance to defeat Janakpur Bolts by 27 runs in a low-scoring Nepal Premier League match on Tuesday, confirming their place in the playoffs alongside Kathmandu Gorkhas. After winning the toss and electing to bat at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Sudurpaschim managed 120 for nine in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, Janakpur were bowled out for 93 in 19.5 overs. The victory took Sudurpaschim to eight points, while Kathmandu Gorkhas also have eight points.

Kathmandu lead the standings on a superior net run rate. Sudurpaschim's victory was their third in a row. Janakpur, who defeated Sudurpaschim in the final to win the inaugural edition of the tournament two years ago, are now in danger of missing the playoffs. They have four points from six matches, with only one fixture remaining.

Sudurpaschim's pace-bowling opening pair of Scott Kuggeleijn and Hemant Dhami put Janakpur under immense pressure during the first six overs. Janakpur's batting line-up continued to crumble.