Chitwan Rhinos continue resurgence with commanding victory
Chitwan Rhinos put on a clinical all-round performance to defeat Biratnagar Kings by 48 runs in the 12th match of the 2025–26 Nepal Premier League on November 26 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground. Batting first, Chitwan posted a competitive 174/5 before dismantling Biratnagar for just 126 in 16.5 overs.
Pacer Ranjit Kumar, who returned with sensational figures of 5 for 21, was the clear standout in a match defined by pressure bowling and steady middle-order contributions. His spell broke the back of Biratnagar’s chase and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Ravi Bopara, Saif Zaib lead Chitwan’s steady build-up
After being put in to bat, Chitwan recovered from early setbacks to build a strong platform. Openers Deepak Bohara and Dawid Malan departed inside four overs, but the middle order responded with purpose. Dev Khanal (28 off 22), Saif Zaib (32 off 30), and a fluent 65 from Ravi Bopara off 38 deliveries guided the innings forward.
Captain Kushal Malla, unbeaten on 20 from 14 balls, ensured the innings finished with momentum, as Chitwan closed on 174/5 from their 20 overs. While Marchant de Lange and Sandeep Lamichhane were economical and picked up two wickets each, the rest of Biratnagar’s bowling unit struggled to contain the run flow, allowing Chitwan to post a challenging total.
Biratnagar’s batting collapse hands Chitwan control
Chasing 175, Biratnagar Kings never looked settled. Opener Lokesh Bam fell early, and while Sam Heazlett (22 off 11), Marchant de Lange (39 off 22), and Pratis GC (30 off 12) showed flashes of resistance, the innings was marked by frequent collapses.
Captain Sandeep Lamichhane was left stranded unbeaten on 4, as Biratnagar were bowled out for 126 in under 17 overs. Only three batters reached double figures.
Ranjit Kumar was the game-changer for Chitwan, dismantling the middle order with a fiery spell. He was well supported by Kamal Airee (2/25) and Sohail Tanvir (1/16), while skipper Kushal Malla chipped in with a wicket, though he proved expensive with figures of 1 for 46 from 3.5 overs, as Chitwan’s bowlers collectively sealed the win.
Ranjit Kumar’s moment of brilliance
In a match with several contributors, Ranjit Kumar’s five-wicket haul stood tall. His breakthroughs at key moments—dismissing set batters and tail-enders alike—ensured Biratnagar never recovered from their early damage. His spell of 4 overs, 5 wickets for just 21 runs, turned the contest Chitwan’s way decisively.
Chitwan climbs the table as Biratnagar falters
The win earned Chitwan Rhinos their second victory in three matches, moving them up to third place in the Nepal Premier League 2025/26 standings as the group stage heats up. For Biratnagar Kings, led by Sandeep Lamichhane, it was their first defeat in four games, but they remain firmly in contention, currently placed second on the table.
With momentum now on their side, Chitwan will look to build on this dominant showing as the race to the playoffs intensifies.
