The Janakpur Bolts will play the Sudurpaschim Royals in the NPL final after securing their position
Janakpur Bolts triumphed over Karnali Yaks by two wickets in a low-scoring Qualifier 2 game at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, earning their spot in the final of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024. The Bolts are set to meet Sudurpaschim Royals in the final on Saturday, featuring a matchup of the top two teams.
Pursuing a modest goal of 119 runs, Janakpur triumphed after early challenges, securing the win in 19 overs with eight wickets lost. Last-minute efforts were made by Mayan Yadav, who scored 14 runs before getting run out, and Sher Malla, who ended not out with 16 runs.
Previously, Sudurpaschim triumphed over Janakpur in Qualifier 1, putting the Bolts in a position where they must win. Janakpur’s beginning in this game was unsteady, as openers Shubh Kansakar and captain Aasif Sheikh were out for 3 and 4 runs, respectively. Lahiru Milantha contributed only 2 runs, while Aakash Tripathi was out after making 13. Harsh Thaker’s unfortunate dismissal at 15 further compounded the team’s struggles.
Nevertheless, New Zealand batsman Jimmy Neesham stabilized the innings with a rapid 45 off 17 deliveries, featuring 2 fours and 5 sixes, prior to being dismissed by Bipin Sharma.
In the early stages of the game, Karnali Yaks scored just 118 runs while losing 9 wickets in their 20 overs. The leading performer for them was Gulshan Jha, who made 25 runs from 20 deliveries, striking one four and two sixes before being dismissed by Muhammad Mohsin. Opener Dev Khanal contributed 24 runs with three fours and a six, but the other batsmen couldn’t take advantage.
Bowlers from Janakpur, especially Lalit Rajbanshi, Jimmy Neesham, and Mohsin, each claimed two wickets to limit Karnali to an inadequate score.
The eagerly awaited final matchup between Sudurpaschim Royals and Janakpur Bolts is scheduled for this Saturday, ensuring a thrilling end to the NPL 2024 season.
