2 days Ago By THT Online
Chitwan Rhinos kicked off their Nepal Premier League (NPL) campaign with a strong performance, defeating Kathmandu Gurkhas by five wickets at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, in Kirtipur. Chasing a target of 112 runs set by Kathmandu, Chitwan successfully reached their goal in just 17 overs, losing five wickets along the way. This victory earned the Rhinos two points in the league standings.
Santosh Karki was the standout performer for Chitwan, scoring an unbeaten 28 runs off 31 balls, which included two boundaries and a six. Luc Benkenstein contributed with 22 runs, while Sharad Vesawkar remained not out on 11. For Kathmandu Gurkhas, Shahab Alam claimed three wickets for 20 runs in his four overs.
In the first innings, Chitwan's bowlers, led by Sohail Tanvir's impressive five-wicket haul, restricted Kathmandu to 111 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their 20 overs. Sumit Maharjan was the top scorer for Kathmandu, making 29 runs from 41 balls, while Michael Levit added a quick 25 runs off just 16 balls, including four fours and a six. Dan Douthwaite finished not out on 19, and Shankar Rana contributed 16 runs.
For Chitwan Rhinos, Rijan Dhakal, Amar Routela, Kushal Malla, and Luc Benkenstein each took one wicket. Sohail Tanvir was named Player of the Match. The next game will feature Janakpur Bolts against Karnali Yaks at 1 PM at the TU ground this afternoon.
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