Asif Sheikh’s double ton in a run-fest ends Madhesh hopes of PM Cup final

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Apr 13, 2026

Armed Police Force Club sealed their place in the Jay Trophy and ended Madhesh Province’s hopes of reaching the PM Cup final with a 74-run win in a high-scoring contest in Birgunj on Monday. The match produced 700-plus runs and 42 sixes in total.

The result also confirmed the final lineup, with Tribhuwan Army Club set to face Sudurpaschim Province on Friday, ensuring a first-ever provincial side will feature in the title clash in nine years of the tournament.

Asked to bat, APF piled up 390 for 5 in a record-breaking innings built around a historic double century from Asif Sheikh.

Asif Sheikh smashed 208 off 142 balls, striking 15 fours and 17 sixes, before retiring hurt. It was the first double hundred of the tournament.

He was well supported by Rohit Paudel (55) and Sundeep Jora (56), who helped push APF to their highest total of the season.

For Madhesh, Rupesh Singh took 3 for 80, while Ranjit Kumar claimed one wicket.

In reply, Madhesh fought hard but finished short at 316 for 8. Aadil Alam led the counterattack with 87 off 43 balls, hitting eight sixes and six fours, while Arniko Yadav made 86 off 73 and Bishal Sushling added 39 off 54.

Abhisesh Gautam returned 3 for 80 for APF. Kamal Singh Airee took 2 for 37, while Rohit Paudel, Yuvraj Khatri and Bhuvan Karki chipped in with a wicket each.