Janakpur Bolts in the NPL final! Janakpur Bolts defeated Karnali Yaks by two wickets in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) Qualifier 2 to secure their spot in the final. Chasing a modest target of 119 runs, Janakpur overcame early setbacks and achieved victory in 19 overs, finishing with eight wickets down.

New Zealand batter Jimmy Neesham played a pivotal role, scoring a rapid 45 runs off just 17 balls. His innings included two fours and five sixes before being dismissed by Bipin Sharma. Contributions from Mayan Yadav (14 runs) and Sher Malla (16 runs not out) also proved crucial in the lower order.

Earlier, Karnali Yaks struggled to post a competitive total, managing only 118 runs for the loss of nine wickets in 20 overs. Gulshan Jha top-scored for Karnali with 25 runs off 20 balls, while Dev Khanal added 24. Janakpur’s bowlers, including Lalit Rajbanshi, Jimmy Neesham, and Muhammad Mohsin, each picked up two wickets to restrict the opposition.

Janakpur’s journey to the final wasn’t without challenges. They suffered a defeat against Sudurpaschim Royals in Qualifier 1, forcing them into this must-win game. Despite an unsteady start, with key players like Aasif Sheikh and Lahiru Milantha departing early, the team showed resilience under pressure.

The final, set for Saturday, will feature Janakpur Bolts facing Sudurpaschim Royals in what promises to be an intense battle. Both teams, having proven their mettle throughout the season, are eager to clinch the prestigious NPL title.

Virat Kohli’s childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, has confirmed that Kohli, wife Anushka Sharma, and their children, Vamika and Akaay, plan to relocate to London. Sharma revealed that the cricketer envisions settling in the UK post-retirement. Virat Kohli frequently visits London, where their son Akaay was born earlier this year on February 15.

The couple owns property in London, where they are expected to reside after the move. “Yes, Virat plans to move to London with his family soon. However, he is currently focused on cricket and spending time with his family,” Sharma stated.

Kohli has balanced cricket commitments and family time this year. After the birth of his son, he returned to India following the T20 World Cup in June and played series against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Currently participating in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, his next major assignment is the Champions Trophy, followed by IPL 2025.

Despite a dip in form during recent matches against Australia, Sharma expressed confidence in Kohli’s ability to deliver. “Virat scored a brilliant century in Perth and will bounce back in the Boxing Day and Sydney Tests,” Sharma said.

Regarding Kohli’s career longevity, Sharma dismissed retirement rumors. “Virat is fit and will continue playing for at least five more years. He will likely participate in the 2027 World Cup in South Africa,” he added. Sharma emphasized Kohli’s passion for cricket and his ability to perform under pressure.

As Kohli continues to shine on the field, his potential relocation marks a new chapter for the cricket icon and his family.

Sudurpaschim Royals in NPL final! Binod Bhandari’s unbeaten half-century guided Sudurpaschim Royals to an emphatic eight-wicket win against Janakpur Bolts, securing their spot in the NPL final. Chasing a target of 140, Bhandari displayed exceptional composure, scoring 58 runs off 55 balls. His partnerships with Saif Zaib and Brandon McMullen were instrumental in steadying the chase after an early loss of wickets.

The Royals’ bowling unit also played a crucial role, with captain Dipendra Singh Airee taking three wickets! Restricting Janakpur Bolts to a modest total. Airee’s leadership with the ball ensured the Royals maintained control throughout the first innings. Janakpur Bolts struggled to build momentum, with only James Neesham and Subash Khakurel making notable contributions of 44 and 26 runs, respectively.

Bhandari’s calculated innings included strategic boundaries and well-timed strikes, proving his experience and resilience in pressure situations. His efforts were well-supported by Saif Zaib, who contributed a steady 30 runs, and McMullen, who added 20 to ensure a smooth chase.

The victory sends Sudurpaschim Royals into the final, where they will face the winner of the second qualifier. The Royals’ all-around performance underlined their strength as a cohesive unit, showcasing both batting depth and bowling prowess.

Janakpur Bolts will now battle the second qualifier against Karnali Yaks to keep their title hopes alive. The thrilling contest promises an exciting final ahead in the Nepal Premier League.