Kathmandu: Sudurpaschim Royals have become the first team to secure a playoff berth in the second edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), winning five consecutive matches to seal their spot with two games still remaining.

The Royals confirmed their place by defeating Janakpur Bolts by six wickets in today’s match at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. The victory was driven by strong batting performances from Binod Bhandari and Ishan Pandey, along with disciplined bowling from Abinash Bohara.

Chasing a target of 146 runs, Sudurpaschim reached 147 in 17.4 overs with four wickets down. Ishan Pandey scored 56 runs and shared a 92-run partnership with Binod Bhandari, who contributed 42 runs.

For Janakpur’s bowling attack, Maaz Sadaqat took two wickets, while Sanjay Krishnamurthi and Aditya Mahata claimed one each.

Earlier, Janakpur Bolts opted to bat first and posted 145 runs for eight wickets in their 20 overs. Sanjay Krishnamurthi top-scored with 50 runs, while Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton added 30.

Sudurpaschim’s Abinash Bohara shone with the ball, taking four wickets, while Scott Kuggeleijn picked up three. With today’s result, Sudurpaschim lead the table with 10 points from five straight wins.

Meanwhile, Janakpur Bolts suffered their fourth consecutive defeat and remain at the bottom of the points table.