Dipendra Singh Airee’s unbeaten 51 from 36 balls powered Sudurpaschim Royals to a six-wicket win over Pokhara Avengers in the Nepal Premier League (NPL). Chasing 146 at TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, the Royals reached their target in 16.5 overs, with 19 balls remaining.
By Niranjan Adhikari
Dipendra and Ishan’s Partnership Decides the Chase
Dipendra struck four fours and two sixes. His 74-run fourth-wicket partnership with Ishan Pandey provided the foundation for victory.
Ishan contributed 37 from 31 balls, including two fours and two sixes, before Mehidy Hasan trapped him lbw. Earlier, opener Binod Bhandari fell for four, while Brandon McMullen scored 22 from just 12 deliveries.
Calling this a one-man rescue would sell Ishan short. Dipendra supplied the unbeaten fifty, but their partnership was the decisive feature of the chase.
Pokhara’s 145 Was Not Enough
After being asked to bat, Pokhara finished on 145/7 in 20 overs.
- Arjun Gharti: 40 not out from 25 balls, with four fours and one six.
- Mehidy Hasan: 32 from 21 balls.
- Anil Kharel: Three wickets for 23 runs in three overs for Sudurpaschim.
Gharti’s unbeaten contribution gave Pokhara a target to defend, but the Royals completed the chase with more than three overs unused.
Verdict: Credit the Partnership, Not Just the Fifty
Sudurpaschim secured their first win of the campaign after a seven-wicket opening defeat to Lumbini Lions. Dipendra deserves the headline; leaving out Ishan’s support and Anil’s three wickets would miss how this match was won.
FAQ
Who won Sudurpaschim Royals vs Pokhara Avengers?
Sudurpaschim Royals won by six wickets, chasing 146 in 16.5 overs.
How many runs did Dipendra Singh Airee score?
He finished unbeaten on 51 from 36 balls.
Where was the NPL match played?
The match was played at TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.