Biratnagar Kings Thrash Pokhara Avengers by 53 Runs in High-Scoring NPL Clash

Kirtipur, Nov 18 — Nepal Premier League 2025/26

Biratnagar Kings registered their first victory of this season with a commanding 53-run win over Pokhara Avengers in the third match of the NPL held at TU International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.

After being sent in to bat, Biratnagar delivered a batting masterclass, posting a massive 220/6 in their 20 overs, thanks to a blistering knock from Player of the Match Lokesh Bam, who smashed 72 off 48 balls, including seven sixes. His innings provided the stability and acceleration Biratnagar needed.

He was well supported by Martin Guptill, who hammered 61 off 35 balls at a strike rate of 174, and Shubham Ranjane, who added a fiery 38 off 16 balls. Their aggressive partnerships ensured Biratnagar crossed the 200-run mark comfortably.

In response, Pokhara Avengers started brightly, scoring 50 inside the first 4 overs, powered by captain @Kushal Bhurtel’s 59 off 31 balls. However, once Bhurtel fell in the 15th over, Pokhara collapsed sharply, losing wickets in clusters.

Sandeep Lamichhane led Biratnagar’s bowling effort with an economical spell of

4-0-18-2, while Marchant de Lange and Pratis GC picked up two wickets each.

Pokhara were eventually bowled out for 167 in 18.5 overs, handing Biratnagar a dominant victory and crucial two points on the NPL table.

Key Highlights

Lokesh Bam (72 off 48) – explosive innings with 7 sixes
Martin Guptill (61 off 35) – powerful top-order contribution
Biratnagar Kings posted 220/6, highest total of the season so far
Kushal Bhurtel (59 off 31) fought valiantly for Pokhara
Sandeep Lamichhane’s 2/18 turned the momentum
Pokhara lost 7 wickets for 64 runs after a strong start

Match Summary

Biratnagar Kings: 220/6 (20 overs)

Lokesh Bam 72, Martin Guptill 61, Shubham Ranjane 38

Matt Taylor 2/48, Aakash Chand 1/48

Pokhara Avengers: 167 all out (18.5 overs)

Kushal Bhurtel 59, Adam Rossington 39

Sandeep Lamichhane 2/18, de Lange 2/48, Ranjane 2/35

Result: Biratnagar Kings won by 53 runs

Player of the Match: Lokesh Bam