Kathmandu move to top with fourth straight win, beat Chitwan by 10 runs

Kathmandu Gorkhas climbed to the top of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) standings with their fourth consecutive victory, defeating Chitwan Rhinos by 10 runs in the second match of Monday's double-header. Having lost their opening match against Janakpur Bolts, Kathmandu have since won four matches in a row. The latest victory has put them within touching distance of a place in the playoffs. Kathmandu have eight points from five matches, moving one point ahead of Lumbini Lions.

Chitwan remain fourth with five points from five matches. Chitwan captain Sikandar Raza won the toss and elected to field. Kathmandu made 180 for eight in 20 overs. Chitwan, in reply, managed 170 for seven at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, despite a half-century from Ravi Bopara.

Openers Arjun Saud and Kamil Mishara gave Chitwan a brisk start, putting on 48 runs inside the first five overs. Santosh Yadav broke the partnership by bowling Saud, who scored 23 off 21 balls, including four fours. Sri Lankan batter Mishara made 28 off 11 balls, hitting a four and three sixes.