In a pivotal Nepal Premier League (NPL) match, Sudurpaschim Royals set a challenging 140-run target for Janakpur Bolts. Janakpur, opting to bat first, managed to score 139 runs for nine wickets across 20 overs. The Royals’ bowlers were in top form, with Dipendra Singh Airee’s impressive three-wicket haul playing a key role.

James Neesham’s strong performance, scoring 44 runs off 23 balls, anchored the Janakpur innings. Subash Khakurel also contributed with 26 runs, but the rest of the batting order couldn’t capitalize on their starts.

The match’s outcome will determine who advances directly to the final of the NPL. Sudurpaschim Royals have set their sights firmly on victory, with the 140-run target being a significant challenge for Janakpur. If Janakpur fails to chase down the target, they will still have a chance to make it to the final, but only after facing Karnali Yaks in the second qualifier.

The Sudurpaschim Royals’ bowlers will be key in defending this 140-run target. Their disciplined approach and sharp tactics will be crucial as they look to prevent Janakpur Bolts from chasing the set total and secure their place in the NPL final. The tension is high, and cricket fans eagerly await the next steps in this exciting encounter.

Sudurpaschim Royals’ 140-run target has put pressure on Janakpur, making this match a must-watch for all NPL enthusiasts. The Royals’ bowlers are set to play a vital role in their hopes of reaching the final.

Karnali Yaks delivered a commanding performance against Chitwan Rhinos, clinching a crucial win that secured their place in the Nepal Premier League qualifiers. With this win, the Yaks ensured that their efforts throughout the tournament culminated in a spot among the top teams. The victory was powered by both solid batting and disciplined bowling, which kept Chitwan’s chase under control throughout the match. Karnali Yaks qualifier!

In their innings, the Karnali Yaks set a challenging target, thanks to an impressive contribution from their middle-order batsmen. Their steady partnerships and timely hitting from the tail ensured they posted a total that was always going to be difficult for Chitwan Rhinos to chase. Karnali Yaks qualifier! The Yaks’ bowlers, led by their pace attack, controlled the flow of runs, consistently breaking partnerships and picking up key wickets.

Chitwan Rhinos, while they fought hard, were unable to maintain the required run rate. Despite some strong efforts from a few of their key batsmen, the pressure mounted as they failed to build partnerships. The Rhinos could not recover from the consistent breakthroughs by the Karnali bowlers. Additionally, the Yaks’ fielding was exceptional, with a few key stops and a game-changing run-out.

The win has boosted Karnali Yaks’ confidence as they head into the qualifiers. This victory was a testament to their all-round capabilities, making them serious contenders for the title. On the other hand, Chitwan Rhinos will need to regroup quickly, as the loss in such a crucial game has dealt a blow to their qualification hopes.

Karnali Yaks now looks forward to the next phase of the competition, where they will face tougher opponents, but their strong performance in this match has given them the momentum needed to go all the way.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s, one of India’s greatest cricketers, has retired from international cricket. He ended a stellar career as the nation’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test history. Ashwin, known for his exceptional spinner skills and vital contributions with the bat, leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations of cricketers.

The 37-year-old debuted in 2011 and quickly became a pivotal figure in Indian cricket. Over the years, Ravichandran Ashwin’s amassed an impressive 489 Test wickets, second only to Anil Kumble in India’s all-time rankings. His ability to adapt to different conditions and outsmart some of the best batsmen in the world earned him accolades across all formats.

Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. His sharp mind and innovative bowling strategies often made the difference in crucial matches, particularly in Tests. Besides his bowling prowess, Ashwin contributed significantly as a lower-order batsman, scoring five Test centuries.

“This will be my last day as an Indian cricket in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me in a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I’ve created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates,” Ashwin said at the press conference.

“Obviously, there are a lot of people to thank. But, I would be failing in my duty if I didn’t thank the BCCI and the rest of my teammates. I want to name a few of them and all the coaches — Rohit, Virat, Ajinkya, and Pujara who have taken all those catches in the slips to help me get those wickets.”

Ashwin also thanked the Australian cricket team for being fierce competitors over the years.

“Also a big thank you to the Australian cricket team. They have been very fierce competitors. I have enjoyed playing alongside them.

“I won’t be taking any questions, but certainly, it’s a very emotional moment.”

Speculation about his retirement was rife after he was seen hugging former captain Virat Kohli in the dressing room at Gabba during a rain interruption on Wednesday. Ashwin and Kohli had an intense chat in the dressing room, leading to rumors on social media.

Ashwin ensured the rumors did not stay for long as he confirmed the call right after the third Test ended in a draw.