NPL 2025 Match Result: Sudurpaschim Royals vs Chitwan Rhinos in Match 24

Published · By Kushma Thapa

Sudurpaschim Royals Clinch Dominating 49-Run Victory Over Chitwan Rhinos

In a highly commanding performance, the Sudurpaschim Royals secured a comprehensive 49-run win over the Chitwan Rhinos in their latest encounter, a victory that further cements their position at the top of the league.

Match Summary

The Royals' batting unit set the tone, posting an impressive 169/4 on the board. Crucial contributions came from the opener Chris Lynn who retired hurt at 75 off 56. Aarif Sheikh (24 off 16)* and captain Dipendra Singh Airee (24 off 14)* also accelerated the innings at the death. The Rhinos' bowling saw Saif Zaib as the standout, claiming two wickets for 35 runs.

Chasing 170, the Chitwan Rhinos' batting lineup struggled to find any momentum and was ultimately bundled out for just 120 runs in 17.1 overs. Their collapse was swift, losing three wickets in the powerplay. Only a fighting knock from Ravi Bopara (29 off 23) and Dev Khanal (28 off 19) offered resistance.

The Royals' bowling attack was disciplined, with captain Dipendra Singh Airee starting with a tight spell (3-0-9-1) and Puneet Mehra cleaning up the tail with impressive figures of 3/14 in 2.1 overs.

Playoff Race Update: Chitwan Eliminated, Focus on Lumbini vs. Pokhara

This heavy 49-run defeat has a dramatic impact:

  • Chitwan Rhinos are now essentially eliminated from the playoff race due to their final low points tally (4) and severely damaged Net Run Rate (-0.691). Even if they win their last match, they cannot catch the Top 4.

  • Sudurpaschim Royals, Kathmandu Gorkhas, and Biratnagar Kings are now all but secured in the Top 4.

  • The final 4th spot will be decided by the outcome of the Lumbini Lions vs. Janakpur Bolts match tomorrow.

Upcoming Fixtures: The Crucial Final Stretch

The playoff fate hinges entirely on the results of the following matches:

Fri, Dec 5 4:00 PM Lumbini Lions (6 Pts) vs. Janakpur Bolts (2 Pts)
DECISIVE MATCH:
If Lumbini wins, the Top 4 is FIXED (LBL qualifies). If Lumbini loses, it opens the door for Pokhara Avengers to qualify in the next match based on NRR.

Sat, Dec 6 11:15 AM Sudurpaschim Royals (12 Pts) vs. Biratnagar Kings (8 Pts)
Battle for the Top 2 positions and final seedings.

Sat, Dec 6 3:30 PM Chitwan Rhinos (4 Pts) vs. Pokhara Avengers (4 Pts)
CRITICAL for Pokhara:
If Lumbini loses on Friday, Pokhara must win this match to tie on 6 points and rely on their superior NRR to claim the final spot.