Kathmandu, December 5
Sudurpashchim Royals claimed their second consecutive victory in the Nepal Premier League (NPL), defeating Kathmandu Gurkhas by 73 runs, led by a remarkable five-wicket haul from young bowler Naren Saud.
Chasing a target of 168 runs, Kathmandu Gurkhas were bowled out for just 94 runs in 15.5 overs. Naren’s brilliant performance made him the second bowler, and the first Nepali player, to claim five wickets in a single NPL match. Earlier, Pakistani bowler Sohail Tanvir of Chitwan Rhinos had achieved the same feat against Kathmandu.
Naren had just returned from playing in the U-19 Asia Cup the previous day and made an impressive NPL debut with this standout performance. Alongside Naren, Avinash Bohara took two wickets, giving away only 12 runs in his three overs, including one maiden. Brandon McMullen and Saif Zaib each claimed one wicket.
For Kathmandu, Stephen Eskinazi was the top scorer with 37 runs off 33 balls, hitting five fours and a six. Sumit Maharjan contributed 14 runs, while Bhim Sharki and Gerhard Erasmus each added 10 runs. Other players failed to reach double digits.
Earlier in the match, Sudurpashchim posted a total of 167 runs after losing the toss and batting first at the TU ground in Kirtipur. Brandon McMullen scored the highest with 53 runs off 36 balls, hitting three fours and four sixes. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee contributed a quick 43 off 25 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes. Opener Binod Bhandari added 35 runs from 28 balls with two fours and two sixes, while Saif Zaib chipped in with 11 runs.
For Kathmandu, Rashid Khan took two wickets, while captain Karan KC, Shahab Alam, and Erasmus each picked up one wicket.
