Dipendra’s half-century helps Sudurpaschim set Kathmandu modest 126-run target

Despite a half-century from captain Dipendra Singh Airee, Sudurpaschim Royals managed only 125 for six in their allotted 20 overs, setting Kathmandu Gorkhas a target of 126 in the first match of Friday’s Nepal Premier League (NPL) double-header. Batting first after losing the toss at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Sudurpaschim struggled to build momentum after losing four wickets for just eight runs. Airee top-scored with 60 off 55 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes.

Kathmandu made another sensational start with the ball. Scott Kuggeleijn, primarily a bowling all-rounder, opened the batting for Sudurpaschim but struck a six off the first ball of the innings. However, Pakistani fast bowler Jahandad Khan dismissed him on the fourth delivery to give Kathmandu their first breakthrough.

Left-arm spinner Santosh Yadav struck twice in the second over, dismissing Brandon McMullen, who was caught, before bowling Ishan Pandey. Neither batter managed to open their account.