Narayan Joshi’s late blitz seals Sudurpaschim’s thrilling two-wicket win

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Apr 02, 2026

Narayan Joshi held his nerve under pressure with a match-winning unbeaten knock to guide Sudurpaschim Province to a narrow two-wicket win over Gandaki Province in Birgunj on Thursday, strengthening their chances of a top-four finish in the PM Cup. The victory was Sudurpaschim’s fourth of the tournament, lifting them to second on the points table.

Batting first, Gandaki posted 190 in 49 overs, with opener Arjun Kumal leading the way with a fluent 44, striking seven boundaries. Captain Bipin Khatri added a steady 30 off 46 balls, hitting two fours, to provide a competitive total for their bowlers to defend.

Sudurpaschim’s bowlers were led brilliantly by captain Sher Malla, who claimed a five-wicket haul, finishing with 5 for 42. Hemant Dhami continued his impressive run with 2 for 26, while Ashok Dhami picked up two wickets and Milan Bohara chipped in with one.

In reply, Sudurpaschim endured a shaky start but found stability through Abhishek Pal, who anchored the innings with a composed 66 off 93 balls, including six boundaries and two sixes. However, regular wickets kept Gandaki in the contest.

With the chase hanging in the balance at 146 for 7, Narayan Joshi produced a decisive counterattack. His unbeaten 45, featuring three sixes, turned the game on its head and steered Sudurpaschim over the line in a tense finish.

For Gandaki, Bipin Khatri led from the front with the ball as well, returning 5 for 36 to keep his side in contention. Krishna Paudel, Subash Bhandari and Bishow Karki picked up a wicket each, but the total proved just short in the end.