The Lumbini Lions secured a convincing 40-run win over the Biratnagar Kings in the Nepal Premier League 2025 Qualifier 2 at Tribhuvan University Ground on December 11. After winning the toss, Biratnagar elected to bowl first, inviting Lumbini to bat. The Lions began well but hit a lull as wickets continued to tumble, ultimately posting 134 all out. A key alliance between D’Arcy Short (45) and Rohit Paudel (34) steadied the innings and pushed the total to a defendable score. Biratnagar’s bowlers, Pratik GS and Subash Bhandari, stood out with three wickets apiece, curbing Lumbini’s scoring potential.
In reply, Biratnagar struggled from the outset, crashing to 94 all out while chasing 135. Their innings failed to gain momentum, with early losses setting a difficult tone. Ruben Trumpelmann struck in the opening over, removing both Martin Guptill and Niroshan Dickwella, which set a negative early mood for the chase. Tilak Bhandari then dominated with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets to dismantle the Kings’ middle and lower order, exacerbating their troubles.
Biratnagar faced a cascade of setbacks as they faltered under pressure. By the 15th over, eight wickets had fallen, and 61 runs still remained required, underscoring the magnitude of their challenge. The Kings ultimately fell short, handing Lumbini a 40-run victory and a place in the final. The Lions will meet SPR in the championship decider.
This win underscored Lumbini Lions’ resilience and bowling prowess, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated final in the tournament.
