KATHMANDU: The Lumbini Lions defeated the Chitwan Rhinos by 33 runs in their fifth game at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Tuesday, marking their first win in the current Nepal Premier League (NPL). For the Lions, who had suffered throughout the tournament, victory was a pivotal occasion.

Lumbini Lions, who batted first, lost six wickets while setting a difficult goal of 168 runsin 20 overs. Rohit Paudel, the captain, led the innings with an incredible 81 runs off 57 balls. Saad Bin Zafar, who was still undefeated at 52 runs, provided him with strong assistance. Kushal Malla and Ranjit Kumar each claimed one wicket, but Rijan Dhakal of Chitwan showed off his skill with the ball by claiming three wickets for 29 runs.

The Chitwan Rhinos struggled in their chase, scoring just 134 runs in their 20 overs at a cost of eight wickets. The Rhinos suffered early difficulties, falling to 16-3 in the opening three overs. Luc Benkenstein and Nar Sarki were the leading scorers with 31 and an undefeated 22 runs, respectively, while captain Kushal Malla scored 20 runs off 17 balls. The Rhinos failed to meet the goal despite a late charge.

Lumbini's bowling attack, started by Captain Rohit Paudel, ruined the Rhinos' batting order. Paudel was outstanding with the ball, taking four crucial wickets, including the removals of Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Sohail Tanvir, Bipin Rawal, and Ravi Bopara, with just 17 runs conceded. Saad Bin Zafar and Avinash Gautam each claimed one wicket, while Ramon Simmonds claimed two.

The Lions' improved batting performance and potent bowling were both factors in their triumph. Zafar's consistent innings and Paudel's all-around contribution were crucial in ensuring the victory. Despite their dominant position on the points table, this result was the Chitwan Rhinos' second defeat in the competition.

Even though the Lions' victory was noteworthy, they still have just two points from five games, which puts them at the bottom of the standings. The Chitwan Rhinos, on the other hand, are still in the competition and are in third position with six points.

The match highlighted the Lions’ potential to compete effectively when their key players deliver under pressure, and it reignited their campaign in the league. They will now look to build momentum in their upcoming matches to climb the standings.