KATHMANDU, Oct 27: Chitwan Rhinos secured a thrilling eight-run victory over Biratnagar Kings in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) after Kamal Airee’s four-wicket haul triggered a dramatic batting collapse.
Chasing a target of 158, Biratnagar were bowled out for 149 in 19.3 overs at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
Biratnagar appeared firmly in control at 132 for four after 15.4 overs, but lost their final six wickets for just 17 runs. Their innings crumbled after the dismissal of Andre Russell, turning a likely victory into a stunning defeat.
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Fast bowler Airee spearheaded Chitwan’s defence, taking four wickets for 26 runs in his four overs. He dismissed Russell, who had scored 33, along with Basir Ahmed (13), Angelo Mathews (14) and Rupesh Singh (0).
Rijan Dhakal delivered a decisive 19th over, dismissing Pratis GC and captain Sandeep Lamichhane for ducks to claim two wickets. Tom Taylor, Ranjit Kumar, Dan Mousley and Mausam Dhakal took one wicket each.
Imran Sheikh top-scored for Biratnagar with 39 off 31 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes. Russell struck 33 off 17 balls, including one four and four sixes, while opener Lokesh Bam made an aggressive 26 off 14 balls, with four fours and a six.
In the middle order, Mathews scored 14, Basir made 13, Shubham Ranjane added 10 and Charith Asalanka scored eight. Rupesh Singh, Pratis GC and Lamichhane fell for ducks, while Naren Saud remained unbeaten on two.
Earlier, Chitwan posted 157 for three in their allotted 20 overs after losing the toss and being sent in to bat. Opener Dawid Malan led the innings with 70 off 50 balls, including five fours and five sixes. Captain Ravi Bopara remained unbeaten on 32, while Dan Mousley scored an unbeaten 29.
For Biratnagar, Mathews, Russell and Asalanka claimed one wicket apiece.