Charith Asalanka’s half-century helped Biratnagar Kings set Lumbini Lions a target of 167 runs in their Nepal Premier League match on Saturday.
Batting first after losing the toss, Biratnagar scored 166 for four in their 20 overs, with Asalanka making 64 off 43 balls.
Lokesh Bam was the first to depart, scoring 15 off 17 balls with two fours in the fifth over. Asalanka then helped build the innings alongside Imran Sheikh and Shubham Ranjane. Imran made 24 off 29 balls, including a six.
Asalanka made the most of two reprieves during his innings. Ruben Trumpelmann dropped him at long-on when he was on 22, while Asif Sheikh put down another chance at long-off when the batter had reached 47. Asalanka struck one four and six sixes in his innings.
Ranjane remained unbeaten on 31 off 24 balls, hitting four fours. Shehan Jayasuriya and Isuru Udana were not out on one and six respectively.
For Lumbini, Kishor Mahato took two wickets for 24 runs in four overs. Trumpelmann and Abhishesh Gautam claimed one wicket each. Trumpelmann proved expensive, conceding 52 runs in his four overs, while Gautam gave away just 15 in three.
Lumbini had already secured a playoff berth before the match and can qualify for the Qualifier as the top-ranked team with a win. Biratnagar, meanwhile, need victory to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Lumbini began the match second in the standings with nine points. A win would take them past Sudurpaschim Royals, who have 10 points, and secure top spot. A victory would lift Biratnagar to eight points and fourth place.
However, Biratnagar’s playoff hopes also depend on the outcome of the match between Chitwan Rhinos and Karnali Yaks. If Chitwan beat Karnali, Biratnagar will be eliminated from the playoff race.
Binod Pandey is a sports reporter for the Kantipur Publications.
