Kathmandu, Nov 15: Pokhara Avengers ended their Nepal Premier League (NPL) campaign on a winning note after defeating Kathmandu Gorkhas by 55 runs in the final league-stage match of the tournament on Sunday night.
Chasing a challenging target of 225 runs, Kathmandu were bowled out for 169 in 19.5 overs.
For Kathmandu, Sahil Patel was the top scorer with 34 runs, while Sonu Devkota contributed 29. William Bosisto scored 26 and Jahandad Khan added 24 runs. However, their efforts were not enough to prevent defeat.
Earlier, batting first after losing the toss at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Pokhara posted an imposing total of 224/3 in their allotted 20 overs.
Yuvraj Samra and Kushal Bhurtel starred with outstanding half-centuries. Bhurtel narrowly missed out on a century, scoring 99 off 51 deliveries with eight fours and eight sixes.
Samra also delivered an impressive performance, scoring 89 off 55 balls, including eight fours and five sixes.
Pokhara captain Dasun Shanaka contributed 19 runs, while Arjun Kumal scored five and Dhananjaya Lakshan remained unbeaten on two.
For Kathmandu, Karan KC claimed two wickets, conceding 34 runs in his four overs, while Jahandad Khan took one wicket.
With the victory, Pokhara finished seventh in the standings with four points from seven matches. Despite the defeat, Kathmandu secured third place with eight points from seven matches and qualified for the playoffs.
With the completion of the league stage, the playoff lineup for the third edition of the NPL has also been confirmed.
Defending champions Lumbini Lions will face Sudurpaschim Royals in the first Qualifier, while Kathmandu Gorkhas will take on Chitwan Rhinos in the Eliminator.
