Sudurpaschim make it two in two as Pokhara fall short again

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Nov 22, 2025

Sudurpaschim Royals have won back to back matches in the second edition of Nepal Premier League (NPL). In contrast, Pokhara Avengers have suffered defeats in both of their first two games despite winning the toss on each occasion.

The usual belief that winning the toss gives an advantage especially in day-night games where chasing teams benefit from the dew, did not apply to these two sides.

Sudurpaschim lost both tosses but won both matches, while Pokhara failed to capitalize on their toss advantage.

On Friday, Sudurpaschim defeated Pokhara by 18 runs, powered by explosive batting from Josh Brown and Chris Lynn.

Batting first, Sudurpaschim posted 193 runs, and Pokhara could only reach 175 in reply.

After a duck in the first match, Josh Brown bounced back brilliantly with a 35-ball 68, smashing boundaries at will. Chris Lynn thrilled the crowd with a 26-run over off Jimmy Neesham, showcasing his trademark big hitting.

Sudurpaschim looked set for a total well above 200, but Pokhara’s bowlers pulled things back in the death overs.

Chasing 194, Pokhara slipped early, losing quick wickets. Captain Kushal Bhurtel (53) held one end together with his second consecutive fifty. Jimmy Neesham (47) kept the hopes alive with aggressive hitting before being bowled by Dipendra Singh Airee.

Late fireworks from Dan Douthwaite (37 off 16) added excitement, but Pokhara ultimately fell short.

For Sudurpaschim, Harmeet Singh took two wickets while Kuggeleijn, Airee, Hemant Dhami, Avinash Bohara and Naren Saud picked up one each.