Kathmandu: Chitwan Rhinos defeated Karnali Yaks by four wickets in the second match of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) today, while Biratnagar Kings registered a commanding 53-run victory over Pokhara Avengers in another fixture.

At TU International Cricket Ground, Karnali, asked to bat first, posted 166/3 in 20 overs. Opener Priyank Panchal shone on his NPL debut, smashing 90 runs off 48 balls with seven fours and six sixes. Chitwan’s bowlers Sohail Tanvir, Saif Zaib, and Ravi Bopara picked up a wicket each.

Chasing 167, Chitwan reached the target with five balls to spare, scoring 167/6. Player of the match Ravi Bopara struck 52 off 36 balls, supported by Deepak Bohora (42 off 36), Saif Zaib (38 off 16), and captain Kushal Malla (20 off 15). Karnali skipper Sompal Kami took two wickets, while Unis Singh, Mark Watt, and Yuvraj Khatri took one each.

In the second match, Biratnagar Kings recorded the highest total in NPL history, posting 220/6 after being sent in to bat. Opener Lokesh Bam (72 off 48) and Martin Guptill (61 off 35) produced brilliant half-centuries, while Shubham Ranjane added a quickfire 38 off 16. Pokhara’s Matt Taylor claimed two wickets.

Pokhara Avengers were bowled out for 167 in 18.5 overs. Only captain Kushal Bhurtel (59 off 31) and Adam Rossington (39 off 21) offered resistance. Biratnagar captain Sandeep Lamichhane delivered a tight spell, taking 2/18 in 4 overs, while Pratish GC, Ranjane, and Marchant de Lange also bagged two wickets each.

Kathmandu Gorkhas will take on Sudur Paschim Royals at 4:00 pm tomorrow. Kathmandu opened their campaign with a five-wicket victory over defending champions Janakpur Bolts in the tournament opener.